2002 BMW 320 vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 2002 BMW 320 is newer by 21 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (117 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW 320 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, 2002 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
2002 BMW 320 | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
Make | BMW | Volvo |
Model | 320 | 343 |
Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 117 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 88.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 80 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |