View Single Post
Old May 26th, 2020, 12:04   #9
Clan
Experienced Member
 
Clan's Avatar
 

Last Online: Today 12:34
Join Date: Jun 2007
Location: L/H side
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by sthodgson View Post
Hello all,

I’ve had a few Volvos in my time but my interest in the 300 was piqued last year when I inadvertently, on one of my regular visits to Brooklands, there were a number of excellent three hundreds on show.

I realise there aren’t many about now but how are they as a classic to own and run? Is it best to buy them from here or other internet locations?

Thanks,
Sam
If you can find one without rust ( probably the only ones left now anyway ) then go for it whatever the engine . This is what I did 5 years ago and got an immaculate 1988 343 1.4 I fitted the 5 speed gearbox from a 1.7 and its a brilliant car , it does between 38 and 45 mpg , that 5th gear is great for cruising at higher speeds but torque is reduced of course . Contrary to popular belief it is not slow if you use the full rev range ,unless you have 4 adults in there . remember that 72 bhp is not unleashed unless you get up to 5200rpm . You hear of people saying they have a lack of grip on the rear .. rubbish , always use premium tyres ..Its a beautifully 50-50 balanced car . The car is larger than modern cars inside , with a huge space in the rear with seats folded down . someone mentioned safety? Its a lot more solid than the escorts vauxhalls etc of the time , IT was probably the first car to use an upper chassis rail as well in the front end , just look underneath at the huge full length chassis box sections there.
People say the steering is heavy , not so on the 1.4 if it is then get the tyre pressures up to 35 psi and always use premium tyres .
You wont need any parts for the 343 , neither will it break down . My 1988 is completely original it has never had any new parts except a fan belt i fitted when i bought it , The Green volvo coolant is still original , clear, bright and clean protecting down to -37C . rear brakes last forever .

Oh we still have our 1980 343 in the family too , 250,000 miles , never broken down and never needed parts either . It hasn't quite got the power of the newer one and it uses more fuel and the heater air flow is nowhere near as good ! The engine runs on lpg which i fitted in 1985.

The 343 won the European Rallycross championship in 1980 , here it is racing in uk at Lyden Hill in 1981 .

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7vQXvA6FCyI&t=31s

The Ford Escort in the second race has 200 bhp more than the 343 contrary to what Murray Walker says !
__________________
My comments are only based on my opinions and vast experience .
Clan is offline   Reply With Quote
The Following User Says Thank You to Clan For This Useful Post: