2007 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,314 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (111 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A3 weights approximately 15 kg more than 1981 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Audi A3 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (185 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 2314 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2660 mm |
