1980 Volvo 343 vs. 2002 Acura CL
To start off, 2002 Acura CL is newer by 22 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 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Acura CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura CL (260 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura CL should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura CL weights approximately 590 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, 2002 Acura CL, 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, 2002 Acura CL (315 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Acura CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volvo 343 | 2002 Acura CL | |
| Make | Volvo | Acura |
| Model | 343 | CL |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 3210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
