2008 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Volvo 460
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 460. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 460 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 168 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 460. (82 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 460. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 430 kg more than 1996 Volvo 460. 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 1996 Volvo 460. 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 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 460. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 460.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Audi A3 | 1996 Volvo 460 | |
Make | Audi | Volvo |
Model | A3 | 460 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3196 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 250 HP | 82 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 125 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 83.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1025 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |