2001 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1977 Volvo 343
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1977 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1977 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 195 kg more than 1977 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volvo 343. 1977 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1977 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | New Beetle | 343 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1786 cc | 1395 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1400 mm |
