2008 Opel Vectra vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 2008 Opel Vectra 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Vectra (277 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Vectra weights approximately 670 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, 2008 Opel Vectra, 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, 2008 Opel Vectra (355 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Vectra | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Vectra | 343 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 277 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.8 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 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 | 1613 kg | 943 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 45 L |
