2008 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Volvo V50
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volvo V50 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo V50 (160 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 38 kg more than 2004 Volvo V50.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Volvo V50. 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 @ 1750 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volvo V50. (280 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volvo V50. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2004 Volvo V50 has manual transmission. 2004 Volvo V50 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 | 2004 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | V50 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.7 seconds | 8.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1467 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.8 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
