2008 Cadillac XLR vs. 1980 Volvo 343
To start off, 2008 Cadillac XLR is newer by 28 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 4,371 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac XLR (444 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 374 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 570 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, 2008 Cadillac XLR, 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, 2008 Cadillac XLR (561 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 453 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Cadillac XLR | 1980 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volvo |
| Model | XLR | 343 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4371 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 561 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1400 mm |
