2007 Volkswagen Caddy vs. 1980 Volvo 343
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Caddy is newer by 27 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Caddy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Caddy (101 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Caddy should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Caddy weights approximately 510 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 1980 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 1980 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Caddy, 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, 2007 Volkswagen Caddy (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Caddy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 343. 1980 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2007 Volkswagen Caddy has manual transmission. 2007 Volkswagen Caddy 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:
| 2007 Volkswagen Caddy | 1980 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Caddy | 343 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1400 mm |
