2006 Audi A3 vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 480 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 77 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 448 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.7 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1062 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 58 L |
