1977 Volvo 343 vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 34 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 204 more horse power than 1977 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1977 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Optima weights approximately 545 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, 2011 Kia Optima, 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, 2011 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 256 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Volvo 343 | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Volvo | Kia |
| Model | 343 | Optima |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1395 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1455 mm |
