1989 Alfa Romeo SZ vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ is newer by 8 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 2,957 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (117 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 343.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ (245 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | SZ | 343 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2957 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 117 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1400 mm |
