1986 Citroen C vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 1986 Citroen C is newer by 12 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 1,761 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Citroen C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Volvo 343 (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1986 Citroen C. (59 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Volvo 343 should accelerate faster than 1986 Citroen C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Citroen C weights approximately 2 kg more than 1974 Volvo 343.
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, 1986 Citroen C, 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, 1986 Citroen C (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1986 Citroen C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Citroen C | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volvo |
| Model | C | 343 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 943 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2400 mm |
