2006 Kia Carens vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 2006 Kia Carens 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 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Carens is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Carens (137 HP) has 67 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Carens should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Carens weights approximately 519 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 Kia Carens, 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 Kia Carens (162 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Carens will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Carens | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Kia | Volvo |
| Model | Carens | 343 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 70 HP |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1462 kg | 943 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
