1974 Volvo 343 vs. 2005 Volvo V50
To start off, 2005 Volvo V50 is newer by 31 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo V50 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo V50 weights approximately 512 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, 2005 Volvo V50, 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, 2005 Volvo V50 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Volvo 343 | 2005 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 343 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 107 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 943 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 62 L |
