VOLVO 343 (1976-1990)
When the Volvo 343 was presented in the winter of 1976, it was the first totally new car from the Dutch company Volvo Car BV. The Volvo 343 entered a very important segment for the European markets - the compact segment.
The Volvo 343 was a 3-door hatchback and the large tailgate at the rear ended in a small spoiler. The car was roomy and also had a good, flexible luggage compartment.
From the beginning, the car was only available with a 1.4-litre engine and continuously variable automatic transmission. It was rear-wheel-driven and had its gearbox at the rear next to the differential to guarantee good weight distribution. The rear-wheel suspension was a De Dion system.
During its lifetime, the Volvo 343 underwent a number of changes in terms of appearance, engine and gearbox. The largest change in its appearance took place in the autumn of 1981 and included a new front and a new interior.
MODEL SPECIFICATIONS
Model: 343
Produced: 472,434
Body: 3-door hatchback
Engine: 4-cylinder, in-line OHV, 1,397 cc; 4-cylinder, in-line SOHC, 1,986 cc; 4-cylinder, in-line, 1,721 cc or 4-cylinder, in-line SOHC 1,596 cc diesel.
Transmission: Automatic, continuously variable CVT, 4-speed manual, 5-speed manual.
Brakes: Hydraulic, disc brakes at the front and drums at the rear.
Dimensions: Overall length 419 cm, wheelbase 239.5 cm.
