2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo 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 3,354 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (180 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo weights approximately 567 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 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 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 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (277 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Monte Carlo | 343 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3354 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 77 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 943 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 45 L |
