2008 Audi A3 vs. 1979 Volvo 260
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Volvo 260 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 1979 Volvo 260 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 1979 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1979 Volvo 260 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1979 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1979 Volvo 260 has manual transmission. 1979 Volvo 260 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1979 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 146 HP |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2660 mm |
