1987 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 1979 Volvo 343
To start off, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 (123 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 500 kg more than 1979 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164, 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, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 (294 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 343. 1979 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 has manual transmission. 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 | 1979 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 164 | 343 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
