1978 Volvo 343 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 30 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 468 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, 2008 Volvo S40, 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, 2008 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 343. (109 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 343. 1978 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2008 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 2008 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Volvo 343 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Volvo | Volvo |
Model | 343 | S40 |
Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1397 cc | 2521 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 70 HP | 217 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 109 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1458 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |