2003 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2011 Volvo XC90 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,400 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo XC90 (185 HP) has 81 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (104 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 860 kg more than 2003 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC90 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Volvo XC90 (340 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 2011 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 185 HP |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4808 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1897 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1783 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
