2009 Audi A3 vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,383 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1980 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2660 mm |
