2012 Audi A3 vs. 1971 Volvo 140
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volvo 140. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volvo 140 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1971 Volvo 140. (81 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1971 Volvo 140. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1971 Volvo 140. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Volvo 140 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 1971 Volvo 140. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volvo 140. (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volvo 140.
Compare all specifications:
2012 Audi A3 | 1971 Volvo 140 | |
Make | Audi | Volvo |
Model | A3 | 140 |
Year Released | 2012 | 1971 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1985 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 81 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 157 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1260 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4650 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2610 mm |