1996 Alfa Romeo 145 vs. 1977 Volvo 343
To start off, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 is newer by 19 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, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 (90 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1977 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1977 Volvo 343. 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, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145, 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, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 (115 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volvo 343. 1977 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 has manual transmission. 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 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:
| 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 | 1977 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 145 | 343 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1351 cc | 1395 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
