2005 Audi A3 vs. 1990 Volvo 960
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 960. (204 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volvo 960 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2005 Audi A3.
Because 2005 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Volvo 960. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Audi A3 (330 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 960. (267 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 960.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1990 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 960 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 2922 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
