1983 Volvo 740 vs. 1978 Volvo 343

To start off, 1983 Volvo 740 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 2,319 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volvo 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Volvo 740 (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Volvo 740 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Volvo 740 weights approximately 282 kg more than 1978 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1983 Volvo 740 (190 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 343. (109 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1983 Volvo 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 343. 1978 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 1983 Volvo 740 has manual transmission. 1983 Volvo 740 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

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