1976 Volvo 343 vs. 2013 Ford Escape
To start off, 2013 Ford Escape is newer by 37 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 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Ford Escape is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Ford Escape (176 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1976 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Ford Escape should accelerate faster than 1976 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Ford Escape weights approximately 602 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, 2013 Ford Escape, 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, 2013 Ford Escape (321 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 Ford Escape will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Volvo 343 | 2013 Ford Escape | |
| Make | Volvo | Ford |
| Model | 343 | Escape |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1592 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4524 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 2078 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1684 mm |
