1986 Citroen BX vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 1986 Citroen BX is newer by 5 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 2,139 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Citroen BX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Citroen BX (197 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Citroen BX should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Citroen BX weights approximately 290 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 1986 Citroen BX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volvo 343. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Citroen BX will offer significantly more control. 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, 1986 Citroen BX (294 Nm) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (108 Nm). This means 1986 Citroen BX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343. 1981 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 1986 Citroen BX has manual transmission. 1986 Citroen BX 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:
| 1986 Citroen BX | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volvo |
| Model | BX | 343 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2139 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
