2008 BMW X3 vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 34 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 892 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 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Volvo 343. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 BMW X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | X3 | 343 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 943 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 45 L |
