2008 Volvo S80 vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 2,434 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S80 (168 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (140 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S80 weights approximately 27 kg more than 2012 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than 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, 2012 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo S80. (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo S80. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2008 Volvo S80 has manual transmission. 2008 Volvo S80 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volvo S80 | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Volvo | Audi |
| Model | S80 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2434 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1532 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
