1978 Fiat Strada vs. 1979 Volvo 343
To start off, 1979 Volvo 343 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat Strada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat Strada would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Volvo 343 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Volvo 343 (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1978 Fiat Strada. (60 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Volvo 343 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat Strada. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Volvo 343 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1978 Fiat Strada. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Fiat Strada, 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, 1979 Volvo 343 (108 Nm) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat Strada. (91 Nm). This means 1979 Volvo 343 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat Strada.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Fiat Strada | 1979 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volvo |
| Model | Strada | 343 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 60 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
