2009 Audi A3 vs. 1991 Volvo 240
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1991 Volvo 240. (96 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1991 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 255 kg more than 1991 Volvo 240. 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 1991 Volvo 240. 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 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volvo 240. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1991 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2660 mm |
