1980 Volvo 343 vs. 2012 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2012 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 32 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (182 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 750 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, 2012 Buick LaCrosse, 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, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (233 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volvo 343 | 2012 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | Volvo | Buick |
| Model | 343 | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5001 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1504 mm |
