2004 Honda Element vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 2004 Honda Element is newer by 30 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 2,354 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Honda Element (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Honda Element weights approximately 612 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, 2004 Honda Element, 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, 2004 Honda Element (218 Nm) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm). This means 2004 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Honda Element | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Honda | Volvo |
| Model | Element | 343 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2354 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 943 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 45 L |
