2008 BMW Z4 vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 27 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 221 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (117 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 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, 2008 BMW Z4 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | Z4 | 343 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 117 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
