2004 Audi A3 vs. 1988 Volvo 440
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 440. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 440 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 440. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 390 kg more than 1988 Volvo 440. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 440. (143 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1988 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 440 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2510 mm |
