2001 Kia Rio vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 2001 Kia Rio is newer by 27 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 1,396 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volvo 343 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Kia Rio (74 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volvo 343 weights approximately 18 kg more than 2001 Kia Rio.
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, 2001 Kia Rio, 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 Kia Rio (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343. 1974 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2001 Kia Rio has manual transmission. 2001 Kia Rio 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:
| 2001 Kia Rio | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Kia | Volvo |
| Model | Rio | 343 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1342 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 943 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2400 mm |
