2003 Renault Megane vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Megane (111 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 315 kg more than 1981 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Renault Megane, 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, 2003 Renault Megane (153 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343. 1981 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2003 Renault Megane has manual transmission. 2003 Renault Megane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Renault Megane | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | Megane | 343 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
