2012 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo V50 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 66 more horse power than 2003 Volvo V50. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 22 kg more than 2003 Volvo V50. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2003 Volvo V50 has manual transmission. 2003 Volvo V50 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi A3 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | V50 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.8 L/100km | 4.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
