2009 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Volvo 265
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 265 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volvo 265 (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 265 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 28 kg more than 1981 Volvo 265.
Because 1981 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 1981 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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 265. (230 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 265.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A3 | 1981 Volvo 265 | |
Make | Audi | Volvo |
Model | A3 | 265 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2849 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 153 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 91 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 73 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1422 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 |