2008 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Volvo 66
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 66. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 66 would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 66. (56 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 66.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Volvo 66. 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 @ 2500 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 66. (94 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 66. 1978 Volvo 66 has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Volvo 66 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1978 Volvo 66 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 66 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1550 mm |
