2006 Audi A3 vs. 1970 Volvo 120
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1970 Volvo 120. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1970 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 480 kg more than 1970 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Volvo 120 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 1970 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Audi A3 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Volvo 120. (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1970 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.7 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2610 mm |
