2005 Volvo S80 vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 2005 Volvo S80 is newer by 31 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 2,442 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S80 (161 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S80 weights approximately 524 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.
Because 1974 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 1974 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S80, 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, 2005 Volvo S80 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volvo S80 | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | S80 | 343 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2442 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1467 kg | 943 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
