2006 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 85 kg more than 2006 Audi A3.
Because 2006 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Volvo S40. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
