1976 Volvo 240 vs. 1977 Volvo 343
To start off, 1977 Volvo 343 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Volvo 240 (81 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1977 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Volvo 240 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Volvo 240 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1977 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, 1976 Volvo 240 (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1976 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Volvo 240 | 1977 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 240 | 343 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1395 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
