1979 Volvo 343 vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 1997 Volvo S70 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 2,319 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volvo S70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo S70 (238 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo S70 weights approximately 510 kg more than 1979 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70, 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, 1997 Volvo S70 (330 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 222 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo S70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 343. 1979 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 1997 Volvo S70 has manual transmission. 1997 Volvo S70 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Volvo 343 | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
Make | Volvo | Volvo |
Model | 343 | S70 |
Year Released | 1979 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1397 cc | 2319 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 70 HP | 238 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 108 Nm | 330 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |