2005 Audi A3 vs. 1994 Volvo 480
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1994 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1994 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 278 kg more than 1994 Volvo 480. 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, 2005 Audi A3 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1994 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1278 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
