2009 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Volvo 66
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 66. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 66 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 66. (56 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 66. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1978 Volvo 66. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Volvo 66 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 1978 Volvo 66. 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) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 66. (94 Nm). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 66. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1978 Volvo 66 has manual transmission. 1978 Volvo 66 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1978 Volvo 66 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 66 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
