2008 Audi A3 vs. 1990 Volvo 780
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 780. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 780 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Volvo 780 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Volvo 780 (200 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Volvo 780 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volvo 780 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. 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 1990 Volvo 780. 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) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 780. (143 Nm). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 780. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1990 Volvo 780 has manual transmission. 1990 Volvo 780 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 | 1990 Volvo 780 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 780 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 213 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2780 mm |
