2009 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1977 Volvo 343
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 5,438 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 399 more horse power than 1977 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1977 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 845 kg more than 1977 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 592 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | 1977 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | E | 343 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5438 cc | 1395 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 469 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1400 mm |
