1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1977 Volvo 343
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 12 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, 1989 Mazda 323 (75 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1977 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Volvo 343 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
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, 1989 Mazda 323, 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 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (103 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1977 Volvo 343 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 1977 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda 323 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:
1989 Mazda 323 | 1977 Volvo 343 | |
Make | Mazda | Volvo |
Model | 323 | 343 |
Year Released | 1989 | 1977 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1395 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 75 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 103 Nm | 108 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 990 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1400 mm |