2009 Audi A3 vs. 1970 Volvo 120
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Volvo 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1970 Volvo 120. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1970 Volvo 120.
Because 1970 Volvo 120 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1970 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Audi A3 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Volvo 120. (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1970 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2610 mm |
