1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 1981 Volvo 343 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volvo 343 (117 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. (109 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 343 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230.
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, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 (185 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
Model | 230 | 343 |
Year Released | 1976 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2307 cc | 1986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 109 HP | 117 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 185 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93.7 mm | 88.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 80 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |