2003 Volvo V50 vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2003 Volvo V50. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 238 kg more than 2012 Audi A3.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo V50. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo V50.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volvo V50 | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Volvo | Audi |
| Model | V50 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1698 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
