1999 Lotus M250 vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 1999 Lotus M250 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 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Lotus M250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus M250 (247 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (117 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus M250 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 343.
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, 1999 Lotus M250 (321 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Lotus M250 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Lotus M250 | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | M250 | 343 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2946 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 117 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1400 mm |
