2008 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 555 kg more than 1981 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Volvo 343 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 343. 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, 2008 Audi A3 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343. 1981 Volvo 343 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. 1981 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Audi A3 | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
Make | Audi | Volvo |
Model | A3 | 343 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1397 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 281 Nm | 108 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 990 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |