1976 Volvo 343 vs. 2006 Volvo S60
To start off, 2006 Volvo S60 is newer by 30 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 2,524 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S60 (209 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1976 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S60 weights approximately 635 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 2006 Volvo S60 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Volvo 343. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S60 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Volvo S60 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Volvo 343 | 2006 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 343 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 209 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
