1981 Volvo 343 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS (507 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 390 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (117 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 343.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 470 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volvo 343 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 343 | CLS |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 117 HP | 507 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4917 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1389 mm |
