1980 Volvo 343 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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 4,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (429 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 359 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1215 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volvo 343. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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 Mercedes-Benz S (699 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 591 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Volvo 343 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 343 | S |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 4700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 429 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 2205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1473 mm |
