1974 Volvo 343 vs. 1994 Volvo 440
To start off, 1994 Volvo 440 is newer by 20 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 1,720 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Volvo 440 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Volvo 440 (118 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Volvo 440 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Volvo 440 weights approximately 147 kg more than 1974 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1994 Volvo 440, 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, 1994 Volvo 440 (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1994 Volvo 440 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Volvo 343 | 1994 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 343 | 440 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 107 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 943 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
