1983 Ford Fiesta vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 1983 Ford Fiesta is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volvo 343 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Volvo 343 (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (40 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Volvo 343 should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volvo 343 weights approximately 228 kg more than 1983 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1974 Volvo 343 (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1974 Volvo 343 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Fiesta | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Fiesta | 343 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 40 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.7 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 943 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 45 L |
