1974 Volvo 343 vs. 2008 Volvo S60
To start off, 2008 Volvo S60 is newer by 34 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S60 (168 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S60 weights approximately 558 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, 2008 Volvo S60, 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, 2008 Volvo S60 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Volvo 343 | 2008 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 343 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 107 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 943 kg | 1501 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
