2006 Mazda 2 vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 2006 Mazda 2 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 1,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Volvo 343 (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 2. (67 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Volvo 343 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 2 weights approximately 217 kg more than 1974 Volvo 343.
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 Mazda 2, 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 Mazda 2 (160 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 2 | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 2 | 343 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 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 | 1160 kg | 943 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |
