2009 Audi A3 vs. 1980 Volvo 265
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 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 2,315 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 265 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 265. (82 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 265. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 265 weights approximately 234 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1980 Volvo 265 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 1980 Volvo 265. 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 (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 265. (145 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 265.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1980 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 265 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2315 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 58 L |
