2007 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 1978 Volvo 343
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 265 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1440 kg more than 1978 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Volvo 343. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 351 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 343. (109 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL | 1978 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | GL | 343 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4663 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2430 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1400 mm |
