1994 Audi A8 vs. 1978 Volvo 343
To start off, 1994 Audi A8 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 1994 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Audi A8 (296 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Audi A8 weights approximately 760 kg more than 1978 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1994 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Volvo 343. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Audi A8 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, 1994 Audi A8 (400 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 291 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 343. (109 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1994 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Audi A8 | 1978 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A8 | 343 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
