2008 Audi A3 vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 480 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 130 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 393 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480. 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 1988 Volvo 480. 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 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1988 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1988 Volvo 480 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 | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1062 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 58 L |
