2004 Audi A4 vs. 1988 Volvo 740
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volvo 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A4 (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 740. (156 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 740. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1988 Volvo 740. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Volvo 740 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 1988 Volvo 740. 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, 1988 Volvo 740 (239 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A4. (225 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1988 Volvo 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1988 Volvo 740 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A4 | 740 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 239 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2780 mm |
