1995 Pontiac Sunfire vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 1995 Pontiac Sunfire is newer by 14 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 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Pontiac Sunfire (148 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Pontiac Sunfire should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Pontiac Sunfire weights approximately 691 kg more than 1981 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1995 Pontiac Sunfire, 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, 1995 Pontiac Sunfire (176 Nm) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (108 Nm). This means 1995 Pontiac Sunfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343. 1981 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 1995 Pontiac Sunfire has manual transmission. 1995 Pontiac Sunfire 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:
1995 Pontiac Sunfire | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
Make | Pontiac | Volvo |
Model | Sunfire | 343 |
Year Released | 1995 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1397 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 176 Nm | 108 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 990 kg |