1989 Chevrolet Lumina vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 1989 Chevrolet Lumina 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 3,134 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Chevrolet Lumina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Chevrolet Lumina (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (117 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Chevrolet Lumina 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, 1989 Chevrolet Lumina, 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, 1989 Chevrolet Lumina (237 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Chevrolet Lumina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Chevrolet Lumina | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Lumina | 343 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3134 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 117 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
