2004 Audi A3 vs. 1986 Volvo 242
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volvo 242. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volvo 242 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Volvo 242 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1986 Volvo 242. (97 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Volvo 242. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Volvo 242 weights approximately 85 kg more than 2004 Audi A3.
Because 1986 Volvo 242 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 1986 Volvo 242. 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, 1986 Volvo 242 (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1986 Volvo 242 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Audi A3 | 1986 Volvo 242 | |
Make | Audi | Volvo |
Model | A3 | 242 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1986 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 97 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 157 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.7 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 93 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2660 mm |