2009 Audi A4 vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 35 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 577 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, 2009 Audi A4, 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, 2009 Audi A4 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Audi | Volvo |
| Model | A4 | 343 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.5:1 | 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 | 1520 kg | 943 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
