2008 Audi A3 vs. 1989 Volvo 460
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 460. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 460 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 460. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 460. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 294 kg more than 1989 Volvo 460. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 460. (175 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 460.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1989 Volvo 460 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 460 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
