2006 Dodge Caliber vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 2006 Dodge Caliber is newer by 32 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Dodge Caliber (154 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 417 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, 2006 Dodge Caliber, 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, 2006 Dodge Caliber (190 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Caliber | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Dodge | Volvo |
| Model | Caliber | 343 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 943 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 45 L |
