2003 Ford Ka vs. 1980 Volvo 343
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 343 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volvo 343 (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volvo 343 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 343 weights approximately 28 kg more than 2003 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Ka, 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, 1980 Volvo 343 (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1980 Volvo 343 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka. 1980 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1980 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Ka | 343 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
