2002 Volvo XC90 vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 2002 Volvo XC90 is newer by 28 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 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volvo XC90 (268 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 1199 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 2002 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Volvo 343. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Volvo XC90 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Volvo XC90 (380 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 273 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343. 2002 Volvo XC90 has automatic transmission and 1974 Volvo 343 has manual transmission. 1974 Volvo 343 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Volvo XC90 | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | XC90 | 343 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2922 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2142 kg | 943 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 45 L |
