1977 Volvo 343 vs. 2005 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2005 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saab 03-Sep (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1977 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1977 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 520 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.
Because 1977 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 1977 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Saab 03-Sep, 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, 2005 Saab 03-Sep (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Volvo 343 | 2005 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Volvo | Saab |
| Model | 343 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1395 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
