2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 2,604 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (174 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 887 kg more than 1974 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (425 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 318 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1974 Volvo 343 has manual transmission. 1974 Volvo 343 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | E | 343 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2604 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 425 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 943 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
