1978 Cadillac Eldorado vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 1981 Volvo 343 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Cadillac Eldorado. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Cadillac Eldorado would be higher. At 6,964 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Cadillac Eldorado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Cadillac Eldorado (171 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (117 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Cadillac Eldorado should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 343.
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, 1978 Cadillac Eldorado, 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, 1978 Cadillac Eldorado (433 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 273 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Cadillac Eldorado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Cadillac Eldorado | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volvo |
| Model | Eldorado | 343 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6964 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 117 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 433 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.6 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 103.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5700 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
