2004 Audi A3 vs. 1985 Volvo 780
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volvo 780. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volvo 780 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 107 more horse power than 1985 Volvo 780. (145 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Volvo 780. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1985 Volvo 780. 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 1985 Volvo 780. 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 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volvo 780. (236 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volvo 780.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1985 Volvo 780 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 780 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 73 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 11.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
