1976 Volvo 343 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 2,442 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (139 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1976 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 475 kg more than 1976 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volvo V50 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volvo 343. 1976 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2003 Volvo V50 has manual transmission. 2003 Volvo V50 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Volvo 343 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 343 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 2442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
