1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 22 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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 461 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, 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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 Oldsmobile Cutlass (249 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Volvo |
| Model | Cutlass | 343 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 943 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 45 L |
