2007 Audi A3 vs. 1987 Volvo 740
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Volvo 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1987 Volvo 740. (156 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Volvo 740. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A3 weights approximately 102 kg more than 1987 Volvo 740. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Volvo 740 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 1987 Volvo 740. 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volvo 740. (239 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volvo 740.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 1987 Volvo 740 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 740 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 239 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2780 mm |
