1972 Simca 1301 vs. 1978 Volvo 343
To start off, 1978 Volvo 343 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Simca 1301. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Simca 1301 would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 343 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volvo 343 (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1972 Simca 1301. (51 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 343 should accelerate faster than 1972 Simca 1301. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Simca 1301 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1978 Volvo 343.
Let's talk about torque, 1978 Volvo 343 (109 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Simca 1301. (100 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1978 Volvo 343 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Simca 1301.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Simca 1301 | 1978 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Simca | Volvo |
| Model | 1301 | 343 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
