1987 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 is newer by 6 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 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 (192 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (117 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 343.
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, 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 (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 164 | 343 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 117 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
