1978 Volvo 343 vs. 2002 Chevrolet Prizm
To start off, 2002 Chevrolet Prizm is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Chevrolet Prizm is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chevrolet Prizm (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet Prizm should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chevrolet Prizm weights approximately 100 kg more than 1978 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet Prizm, 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, 2002 Chevrolet Prizm (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 343. (109 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Chevrolet Prizm will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Volvo 343 | 2002 Chevrolet Prizm | |
Make | Volvo | Chevrolet |
Model | 343 | Prizm |
Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1794 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 70 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 109 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1090 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |