2009 Kia Rio vs. 1976 Volvo 343
To start off, 2009 Kia Rio is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Rio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Rio (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1976 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1976 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Rio weights approximately 529 kg more than 1976 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Kia Rio, 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 Kia Rio (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volvo 343. 1976 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2009 Kia Rio has manual transmission. 2009 Kia Rio will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Rio | 1976 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Kia | Volvo |
| Model | Rio | 343 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
