1986 Fiat Panda vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 1986 Fiat Panda 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 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volvo 343 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Volvo 343 (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1986 Fiat Panda. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Volvo 343 should accelerate faster than 1986 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volvo 343 weights approximately 133 kg more than 1986 Fiat Panda. 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, 1986 Fiat Panda, 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 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Fiat Panda. (71 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1974 Volvo 343 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Fiat Panda | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volvo |
| Model | Panda | 343 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1302 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.1 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 20.0:1 | 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 | 810 kg | 943 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 32 L | 45 L |
