2008 Nissan 350Z vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 2008 Nissan 350Z 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (117 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan 350Z 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 Nissan 350Z (364 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan 350Z | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Nissan | Volvo |
| Model | 350Z | 343 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 306 HP | 117 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 364 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
