2005 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1981 Volvo 343
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 24 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 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 343 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (169 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 343. (117 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (250 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 343. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | 1981 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | E | 343 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 117 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1400 mm |
