1988 Ford Taurus vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 1988 Ford Taurus is newer by 14 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 2,513 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Taurus (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Taurus weights approximately 457 kg more than 1974 Volvo 343. 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, 1988 Ford Taurus, 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, 1988 Ford Taurus (177 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Ford Taurus | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
Make | Ford | Volvo |
Model | Taurus | 343 |
Year Released | 1988 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2513 cc | 1396 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 177 Nm | 107 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 943 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4150 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2400 mm |