2009 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan 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 3,299 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan (175 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 748 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 Dodge Grand Caravan, 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 Dodge Grand Caravan (278 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan has automatic transmission and 1974 Volvo 343 has manual transmission. 1974 Volvo 343 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Dodge | Volvo |
| Model | Grand Caravan | 343 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3299 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 77 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 943 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5150 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 45 L |
