1997 Ford F-150 vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 1997 Ford F-150 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 5,406 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ford F-150 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford F-150 (256 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (117 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford F-150 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 343.
Because 1997 Ford F-150 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, 1997 Ford F-150 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, 1997 Ford F-150 (467 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 307 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford F-150 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford F-150 | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | F-150 | 343 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5406 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 117 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 467 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1400 mm |
