1987 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 1987 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 13 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 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 70 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 97 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, 1987 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1987 Volkswagen Passat (118 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1987 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
1987 Volkswagen Passat | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
Model | Passat | 343 |
Year Released | 1987 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1396 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 70 HP | 70 HP |
Torque | 118 Nm | 107 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 943 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4150 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2400 mm |