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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 106 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 215 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 2004 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 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, 2004 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 101 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. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1978 Volvo 260 has manual transmission. 1978 Volvo 260 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A3 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 | 3189 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 73 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
