1992 Ford Orion vs. 1976 Volvo 343
To start off, 1992 Ford Orion is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Ford Orion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Ford Orion (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1976 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Ford Orion should accelerate faster than 1976 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Ford Orion weights approximately 30 kg more than 1976 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Ford Orion, 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, 1992 Ford Orion (131 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1992 Ford Orion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volvo 343. 1976 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 1992 Ford Orion has manual transmission. 1992 Ford Orion will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Ford Orion | 1976 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Orion | 343 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
