1998 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 24 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), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (103 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 287 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Volkswagen Golf | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
Model | Golf | 343 |
Year Released | 1998 | 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 | 103 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 107 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76.6 mm | 76 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 77 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 943 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4150 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2400 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |