2004 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Volvo 440
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 440. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 440 would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 440. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 180 kg more than 1996 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 (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 440. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1996 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 440 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 60 L |
