1996 Audi A6 vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 1996 Audi A6 is newer by 15 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 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 343 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A6 (124 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (117 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 343.
Because 1996 Audi A6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volvo 343. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A6 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 Audi A6 (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A6 | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A6 | 343 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 117 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
