1991 BMW M12 vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 1991 BMW M12 is newer by 10 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 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 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, 1991 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 342 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343. 1981 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW M12 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW M12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1991 BMW M12 | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | M12 | 343 |
Year Released | 1991 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 4988 cc | 1397 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 296 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 450 Nm | 108 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1400 mm |