1974 Volvo 343 vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2002 BMW Z3 is newer by 28 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z3 weights approximately 457 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.
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, 2002 BMW Z3 (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343. 2002 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1974 Volvo 343 has manual transmission. 1974 Volvo 343 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Volvo 343 | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Volvo | BMW |
| Model | 343 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 107 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 943 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 51 L |
