2004 Audi A4 vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A4 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 545 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 2004 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Volvo 343. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 will offer significantly more control. 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 Audi A4 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A4 | 343 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
