1987 Mazda 626 vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 1987 Mazda 626 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mazda 626 (146 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (117 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mazda 626 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 Mazda 626, 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 Mazda 626 (182 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mazda 626 | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 626 | 343 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 117 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
