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 2,383 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4800 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 46 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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240. 2007 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1981 Volvo 240 has manual transmission. 1981 Volvo 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 1968 cc | 2383 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 81 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 76.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 23.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1416 kg | 1370 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 |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |