VOLVO 343 IN PRODUCTION 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 relatively 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.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• Model: 343
• Variants
• Produced: 1976 -1990
• Volume: 472434
• Body: 3-door hatchback
• Engine: 4-cylinder, in-line OHV, 1,397 cc, 4-cylinder, in-line OHC, 1,986 cc, 4-cylinder, in-line, 1,721 cc or 4-cylinder, in-line OHC 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.