2001 Audi A2 vs. 1976 Volvo 343
To start off, 2001 Audi A2 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 1,422 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Audi A2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A2 (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1976 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A2 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Volvo 343 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2001 Audi A2.
Because 1976 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 1976 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A2, 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, 2001 Audi A2 (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volvo 343. 1976 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2001 Audi A2 has manual transmission. 2001 Audi A2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A2 | 1976 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A2 | 343 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1422 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1400 mm |
