2009 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Volvo S90
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 S90. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S90 would be higher. At 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volvo S90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo S90 (201 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S90 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo S90 weights approximately 285 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 1996 Volvo S90 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 S90. 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, 1996 Volvo S90 (267 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo S90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 1996 Volvo S90 has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Volvo S90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1996 Volvo S90 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | S90 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2922 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
