2008 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 2,523 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (216 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 120 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Volvo S40. 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, both vehicles can yield 320 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Audi A3 | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Audi | Volvo |
Model | A3 | S40 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1966 cc | 2523 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 216 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 93.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2670 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |