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 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 113 more horse power than 2003 Volvo V50. (139 HP @ 5000 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 100 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.
Because 2004 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Volvo V50. 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 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo V50. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo V50. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2003 Volvo V50 has manual transmission. 2003 Volvo V50 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A3 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 | 3189 cc | 2442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
