2006 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1980 Volvo 343
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 26 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (232 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 965 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.
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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (540 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 432 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz S | 1980 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | 343 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5080 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
