2007 BMW 550 vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 2007 BMW 550 is newer by 26 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 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 243 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (117 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 550 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, 2007 BMW 550 (489 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 329 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 550 | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 550 | 343 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 360 HP | 117 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 489 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
