1980 Volvo 343 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 446 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 Volkswagen Passat, 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 Volkswagen Passat (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 343. 1980 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 343 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
