2009 Ford Taurus vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6251 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Taurus weights approximately 23 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 Ford Taurus, 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 Ford Taurus (338 Nm @ 4501 RPM) has 231 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343. 2009 Ford Taurus 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 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Ford Taurus | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
Make | Ford | Volvo |
Model | Taurus | 343 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1397 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 263 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 6251 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 338 Nm | 107 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4501 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.3:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 943 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4150 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2400 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 45 L |