2009 Audi A3 vs. 1970 Volvo P 1800
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 P 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volvo P 1800 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Volvo P 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1970 Volvo P 1800. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1970 Volvo P 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 365 kg more than 1970 Volvo P 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Volvo P 1800 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 P 1800. 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Volvo P 1800. (176 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Volvo P 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1970 Volvo P 1800 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | P 1800 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2460 mm |
