1985 Holden Gemini vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 1985 Holden Gemini is newer by 11 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 1,471 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Holden Gemini is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Holden Gemini (72 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Holden Gemini should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volvo 343 weights approximately 83 kg more than 1985 Holden Gemini.
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, 1985 Holden Gemini, 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, 1985 Holden Gemini (116 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1985 Holden Gemini will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343. 1974 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 1985 Holden Gemini has manual transmission. 1985 Holden Gemini will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Holden Gemini | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Holden | Volvo |
| Model | Gemini | 343 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1471 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 943 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2400 mm |
