2009 Audi A3 vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 1,966 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 485 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480. 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 1988 Volvo 480. 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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1988 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1988 Volvo 480 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 | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
Make | Audi | Volvo |
Model | A3 | 480 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1966 cc | 1720 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 175 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 83.5 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1060 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 58 L |