1974 Volvo 343 vs. 2008 Volvo S80
To start off, 2008 Volvo S80 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S80 (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S80 weights approximately 673 kg more than 1974 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S80, 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, 2008 Volvo S80 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Volvo 343 | 2008 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 343 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 107 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 943 kg | 1616 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
