1988 Volkswagen Polo vs. 1977 Volvo 343
To start off, 1988 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 1,395 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Volvo 343 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Volvo 343 (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Volvo 343 should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Volvo 343 weights approximately 220 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 1977 Volvo 343 (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. (95 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1977 Volvo 343 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. 1977 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 1988 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1988 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Volkswagen Polo | 1977 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Polo | 343 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1043 cc | 1395 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 770 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1400 mm |
