1997 Buick Century vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 1997 Buick Century is newer by 16 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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Buick Century (165 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (117 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 343.
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, 1997 Buick Century, 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, 1997 Buick Century (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Buick Century | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
Make | Buick | Volvo |
Model | Century | 343 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 165 HP | 117 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 251 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 88.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |