1976 Volvo 343 vs. 2010 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2010 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 34 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Hyundai Sonata (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1976 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1976 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 519 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, 2010 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 2010 Hyundai Sonata (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2010 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Volvo 343 | 2010 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Volvo | Hyundai |
| Model | 343 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1509 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4798 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1473 mm |
