2005 Audi A3 vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,383 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A3 (139 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 260 weights approximately 65 kg more than 2005 Audi A3.
Because 1980 Volvo 260 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 1980 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3, 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, 2005 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Audi A3 | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
Make | Audi | Volvo |
Model | A3 | 260 |
Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2383 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 81 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 23.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1450 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2660 mm |