2007 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 33 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 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (104 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 281 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, 2007 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (148 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Volkswagen Golf | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
Model | Golf | 343 |
Year Released | 2007 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1397 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 107 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 76 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 77 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 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 | 1224 kg | 943 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4150 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2400 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |