2001 BMW M3 vs. 1980 Volvo 343
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 247 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 560 kg more than 1980 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, 2001 BMW M3 (330 Nm) has 222 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 343. (108 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 343. 1980 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2001 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 BMW M3 | 1980 Volvo 343 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | M3 | 343 |
Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1397 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 317 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 330 Nm | 108 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 990 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |