2009 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Volvo 960
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 2,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 960 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 960. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 960 weights approximately 470 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1996 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 1996 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 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 960. (233 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 960. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo 960 has manual transmission. 1996 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 | 1996 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 960 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1500 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 |
