2008 Audi A3 vs. 1974 Volvo 245
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 245. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 245 would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 245. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 245. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 61 kg more than 1974 Volvo 245. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Volvo 245. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 245. (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 245.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1974 Volvo 245 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 245 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 2125 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1394 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
