2009 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1978 Volvo 343
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 31 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 336 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.
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 (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 241 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 343. (109 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | 1978 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | E | 343 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1400 mm |
