1974 Volvo 343 vs. 2011 Opel Combo
To start off, 2011 Opel Combo is newer by 37 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 1,396 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volvo 343 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Opel Combo (89 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Opel Combo should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343.
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, 2011 Opel Combo, 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, 2011 Opel Combo (126 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Opel Combo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343. 1974 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2011 Opel Combo has manual transmission. 2011 Opel Combo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Volvo 343 | 2011 Opel Combo | |
| Make | Volvo | Opel |
| Model | 343 | Combo |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1396 cc | 1364 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 107 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 52 L |
