2004 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Volvo 260
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1978 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Volvo 260 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 1978 Volvo 260. 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, 2004 Audi A3 (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 260. (219 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 260. 1978 Volvo 260 has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Volvo 260 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1978 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
