2004 Audi A3 vs. 1973 Volvo 145
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volvo 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volvo 145 would be higher. At 1,778 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volvo 145 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Volvo 145 (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Volvo 145 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Volvo 145 weights approximately 85 kg more than 2004 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Volvo 145 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1973 Volvo 145. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1973 Volvo 145 (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1973 Volvo 145 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1973 Volvo 145 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 145 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2620 mm |
