1996 BMW 535 vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 1996 BMW 535 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 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 535 (232 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 535 weights approximately 672 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.
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, 1996 BMW 535 (320 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 535 | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 535 | 343 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3430 cc | 1397 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 232 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 108 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1662 kg | 990 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |