2004 Audi A4 vs. 1978 Volvo 264
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 264. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 264 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 264 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A4 (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 264. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 264. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 104 kg more than 1978 Volvo 264. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Volvo 264 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 Volvo 264. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 A4 (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 264. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 264.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1978 Volvo 264 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A4 | 264 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1456 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
