1981 Volvo 343 vs. 2012 Brilliance BS6
To start off, 2012 Brilliance BS6 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 2,351 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Brilliance BS6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Brilliance BS6 (152 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Brilliance BS6 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Brilliance BS6 weights approximately 455 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, 2012 Brilliance BS6, 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 Brilliance BS6 (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Brilliance BS6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343. 1981 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2012 Brilliance BS6 has manual transmission. 2012 Brilliance BS6 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 | 2012 Brilliance BS6 | |
| Make | Volvo | Brilliance |
| Model | 343 | BS6 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 2351 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
