2006 Audi A3 vs. 1974 Volvo 245
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 245. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 245 would be higher. At 2,125 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volvo 245 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 245. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 245. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volvo 245 weights approximately 14 kg more than 2006 Audi A3.
Because 1974 Volvo 245 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 1974 Volvo 245. 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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 245. (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 245. 1974 Volvo 245 has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Volvo 245 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1974 Volvo 245 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 245 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2125 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1394 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
