2005 Audi A3 vs. 1977 Volvo 343
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1977 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 390 kg more than 1977 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3, 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, 2005 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volvo 343. 1977 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2005 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2005 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1977 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A3 | 343 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1395 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
