2009 Audi A8 vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 35 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 3,123 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (256 HP) has 186 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volvo 343 weights approximately 48 kg more than 2009 Audi A8.
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, 2009 Audi A8, 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, 2009 Audi A8 (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343. 2009 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1974 Volvo 343 has manual transmission. 1974 Volvo 343 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A8 | 343 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3123 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 70 HP |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 13.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 943 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 45 L |
