2005 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 24 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 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 (104 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 275 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 147, 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 (140 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343. 1981 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 has manual transmission. 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 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:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 147 | 343 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 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 | 1265 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
