2006 Audi A3 vs. 2011 Volvo S40
To start off, 2011 Volvo S40 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo S40 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 16 kg more than 2011 Volvo S40.
Because 2006 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 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, 2011 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 2011 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | S40 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1514 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4475 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.4 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.8 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
