2008 Audi A3 vs. 1998 Volvo S80
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S80 (268 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 234 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 1998 Volvo S80. 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, 1998 Volvo S80 (380 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1998 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | S80 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 2783 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1689 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.4 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.1 L/100km | 16.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 10.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
