2005 Volkswagen Multivan vs. 1980 Volvo 343
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Multivan is newer by 25 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Multivan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Multivan (232 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Multivan should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Multivan weights approximately 1309 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 2005 Volkswagen Multivan is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volvo 343. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Multivan 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, 2005 Volkswagen Multivan (310 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Multivan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 343. 1980 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2005 Volkswagen Multivan has manual transmission. 2005 Volkswagen Multivan 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:
| 2005 Volkswagen Multivan | 1980 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Multivan | 343 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2299 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1950 mm | 1400 mm |
