2001 Toyota Previa vs. 1980 Volvo 343
To start off, 2001 Toyota Previa is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Toyota Previa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Toyota Previa (160 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Toyota Previa should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Toyota Previa weights approximately 535 kg more than 1980 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Toyota Previa, 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, 2001 Toyota Previa (222 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Toyota Previa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 343. 1980 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2001 Toyota Previa has manual transmission. 2001 Toyota Previa will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Toyota Previa | 1980 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Toyota | Volvo |
| Model | Previa | 343 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1400 mm |
