1981 Volvo 343 vs. 2012 BMW 320
To start off, 2012 BMW 320 is newer by 31 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 320 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (117 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 343.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 2012 BMW 320 (380 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Volvo 343 | 2012 BMW 320 | |
Make | Volvo | BMW |
Model | 343 | 320 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 117 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 380 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4624 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1811 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1429 mm |