1999 Buick Cielo vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 1999 Buick Cielo is newer by 18 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 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Buick Cielo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Buick Cielo (238 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (117 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Buick Cielo 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, 1999 Buick Cielo, 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, 1999 Buick Cielo (373 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Buick Cielo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Buick Cielo | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Buick | Volvo |
| Model | Cielo | 343 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3800 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 117 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 373 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1400 mm |
