1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 17 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 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (117 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
Model | SL | 343 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3197 cc | 1986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 224 HP | 117 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 315 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 88.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1400 mm |