2006 Alfa Romeo GT vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo GT is newer by 25 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo GT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo GT (163 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo GT should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo GT weights approximately 405 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, 2006 Alfa Romeo GT, 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, 2006 Alfa Romeo GT (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo GT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343. 1981 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2006 Alfa Romeo GT has manual transmission. 2006 Alfa Romeo GT 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:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo GT | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | GT | 343 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 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 | 1395 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
