2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 23 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 3,177 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 495 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343. 1981 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 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:
2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
Model | 156 | 343 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3177 cc | 1397 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 238 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 289 Nm | 108 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 990 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |