2006 Audi A3 vs. 1975 Volvo 240
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volvo 240 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 1975 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1975 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1975 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 Volvo 240 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 1975 Volvo 240. 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 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volvo 240. (158 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1975 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 158 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 |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2650 mm |
