2009 Ford Focus vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 28 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 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 343 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volvo 343 (117 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (89 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 343 should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus.
Because 1981 Volvo 343 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1981 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2009 Ford Focus (215 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Focus | 343 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 117 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1850 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1400 mm |
