1950 BMW 340 vs. 1978 Volvo 343
To start off, 1978 Volvo 343 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1950 BMW 340. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1950 BMW 340 would be higher. At 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1950 BMW 340 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volvo 343 (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1950 BMW 340. (53 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 343 should accelerate faster than 1950 BMW 340. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1950 BMW 340 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1978 Volvo 343.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1950 BMW 340 | 1978 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 340 | 343 |
| Year Released | 1950 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1400 mm |
