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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 98 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 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 90 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 | 2496 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 117 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1400 mm |
