2004 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Volvo S80
To start off, 2012 Volvo S80 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo S80 (240 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo S80 weights approximately 296 kg more than 2004 Audi A3. 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, 2012 Volvo S80 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3. 2012 Volvo S80 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. 2012 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 2012 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | S80 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1706 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4851 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1862 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1494 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2835 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
