2002 Volkswagen Phaeton vs. 1979 Volvo 343
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 4,921 cc (10 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (308 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 238 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1499 kg more than 1979 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Volvo 343. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (750 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 642 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton | 1979 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Phaeton | 343 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4921 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 308 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 750 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2489 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
