2009 Audi A3 vs. 1971 Volvo 164
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volvo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volvo 164 would be higher. At 2,978 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Volvo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1971 Volvo 164. (129 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1971 Volvo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Volvo 164 weights approximately 330 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1971 Volvo 164 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 1971 Volvo 164. 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 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volvo 164. (210 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volvo 164.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1971 Volvo 164 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 164 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2730 mm |
