2006 Renault Megane vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 2006 Renault Megane 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 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Renault Megane (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Renault Megane weights approximately 452 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 Renault Megane, 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 Renault Megane (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Renault Megane | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | Megane | 343 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1870 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 943 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 45 L |
