1993 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 12 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 2,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (117 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL 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, 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | 343 |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2797 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 117 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1400 mm |
