2008 Audi A3 vs. 1988 Volvo 740
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 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volvo 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Volvo 740 weights approximately 155 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 1988 Volvo 740 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 1988 Volvo 740. 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, 1988 Volvo 740 (239 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1988 Volvo 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1988 Volvo 740 has manual transmission. 1988 Volvo 740 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 740 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 740 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 156 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 239 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2780 mm |
