1993 BMW 325 vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 1993 BMW 325 is newer by 12 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 BMW 325 (189 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (117 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 BMW 325 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 BMW 325 | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 325 | 343 |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 117 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1400 mm |
