2004 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2003 Volvo V50. (161 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 11 kg more than 2003 Volvo V50. 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, both vehicles can yield 230 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2003 Volvo V50 has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | V50 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 9.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
