1999 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 25 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 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Passat (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 332 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, 1999 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1999 Volkswagen Passat (141 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Volkswagen Passat | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Passat | 343 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 77 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 943 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
