1974 Volvo 343 vs. 2009 Volvo S80
To start off, 2009 Volvo S80 is newer by 35 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 2,953 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S80 (282 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo S80 weights approximately 655 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 2009 Volvo S80 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Volvo 343. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S80 will offer significantly more control. 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 Volvo S80 (400 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 293 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 343 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1396 cc | 2953 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 107 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 943 kg | 1598 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
