1980 Volvo 343 vs. 1993 Volvo 460
To start off, 1993 Volvo 460 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Volvo 460 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Volvo 460 (118 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Volvo 460 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Volvo 460 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1980 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 Volvo 460, 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, 1993 Volvo 460 (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1993 Volvo 460 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 343. 1980 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 1993 Volvo 460 has manual transmission. 1993 Volvo 460 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volvo 343 | 1993 Volvo 460 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 343 | 460 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
