2006 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Volvo 264
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 264. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 264 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 264 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 264. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 264. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volvo 264 weights approximately 46 kg more than 2006 Audi A3.
Because 1978 Volvo 264 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 1978 Volvo 264. 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 264. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 264.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1978 Volvo 264 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 264 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1456 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4910 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 |
