2000 Citroen Xsara vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 2000 Citroen Xsara is newer by 26 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 1,868 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 70 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 167 kg more than 1974 Volvo 343.
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, 2000 Citroen Xsara, 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, 2000 Citroen Xsara (128 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2000 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343. 1974 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2000 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 2000 Citroen Xsara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Citroen Xsara | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volvo |
| Model | Xsara | 343 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1868 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.2 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 77 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 943 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2400 mm |
