2006 Audi A3 vs. 1972 Volvo 140
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volvo 140. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volvo 140 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Volvo 140 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (105 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1972 Volvo 140. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Volvo 140. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1972 Volvo 140. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Volvo 140 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 1972 Volvo 140. 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 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volvo 140. (153 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volvo 140.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1972 Volvo 140 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 140 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2610 mm |
