2008 Audi A3 vs. 1990 Volvo 960
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 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 2,383 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Volvo 960 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 960. (120 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volvo 960 weights approximately 160 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 1990 Volvo 960 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 1990 Volvo 960. 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 (201 Nm) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 960. (143 Nm). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 960.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1990 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 960 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2780 mm |
