1977 Volvo 343 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 35 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1977 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 393 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, 2012 Mazda 3, 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Volvo 343 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Volvo | Mazda |
| Model | 343 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1395 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1471 mm |
