1980 Volvo 343 vs. 2012 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC90 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 (5 cylinders), 2012 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo XC90 (200 HP) has 130 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 343. (70 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 1165 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 Volvo XC90 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 Volvo XC90 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 Volvo XC90 (420 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 312 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo XC90 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 Volvo XC90 has manual transmission. 2012 Volvo XC90 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 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 343 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4808 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1897 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1783 mm |
