2006 Chevrolet SSR vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet SSR 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 5,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet SSR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet SSR (401 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 284 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (117 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet SSR should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 343.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Chevrolet SSR (542 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 382 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet SSR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet SSR | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | SSR | 343 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5965 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 401 HP | 117 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 542 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1400 mm |
