2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1887 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 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343. 1974 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2009 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | A | 343 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 943 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 45 L |
