2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 2003 Mazda Roadster is newer by 22 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 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 343 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Roadster (157 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (117 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster 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, 2003 Mazda Roadster (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Roadster | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | Roadster | 343 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 117 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1400 mm |
