2003 Ford C-MAX vs. 1979 Volvo 343
To start off, 2003 Ford C-MAX is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford C-MAX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford C-MAX (144 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford C-MAX should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford C-MAX weights approximately 402 kg more than 1979 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford C-MAX, 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 Ford C-MAX (344 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Ford C-MAX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 343. 1979 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford C-MAX has manual transmission. 2003 Ford C-MAX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford C-MAX | 1979 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | C-MAX | 343 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1400 mm |
