2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 29 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 1,774 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (138 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 397 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 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (164 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 156 | 343 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1774 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 77 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 943 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 45 L |
