2009 Audi A3 vs. 1990 Volvo 960
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Volvo 960 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Volvo 960 (204 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Volvo 960 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volvo 960 weights approximately 530 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 Volvo 960 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 1990 Volvo 960. 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 @ 1800 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 960. (267 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 960. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1990 Volvo 960 has manual transmission. 1990 Volvo 960 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 | 1990 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 960 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2922 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
