2008 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2009 Volvo XC90 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Audi A3 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 68 more horse power than 2009 Volvo XC90. (182 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volvo XC90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 86 kg more than 2009 Volvo XC90. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Volvo XC90 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2009 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1369 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1900 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 72 L |
