1998 Volvo S80 vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 1998 Volvo S80 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 2,783 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S80 (268 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 699 kg more than 1981 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Volvo 343 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1981 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Volvo S80 (380 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 272 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volvo S80 | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S80 | 343 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2783 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1689 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
