1995 Mazda MX-3 vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 1995 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 21 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Mazda MX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mazda MX-3 (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 116 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, 1995 Mazda MX-3, 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, 1995 Mazda MX-3 (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1995 Mazda MX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mazda MX-3 | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | MX-3 | 343 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 943 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 45 L |
