1980 Volvo 343 vs. 2008 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2008 Skoda Octavia is newer by 28 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 1,966 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Skoda Octavia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Skoda Octavia (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Skoda Octavia should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 440 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, 2008 Skoda Octavia, 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, 2008 Skoda Octavia (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volvo 343 | 2008 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Volvo | Skoda |
| Model | 343 | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
