1981 Volvo 343 vs. 2011 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2011 Mini Cooper is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mini Cooper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mini Cooper (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mini Cooper weights approximately 305 kg more than 1981 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Volvo 343 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 1981 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mini Cooper, 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, 2011 Mini Cooper (240 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343. 1981 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2011 Mini Cooper has manual transmission. 2011 Mini Cooper will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volvo 343 | 2011 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Volvo | Mini |
| Model | 343 | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3729 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1684 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1415 mm |
