1978 Volvo 343 vs. 2010 Opel Astra
To start off, 2010 Opel Astra is newer by 32 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Opel Astra weights approximately 635 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, 2010 Opel Astra, 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, 2010 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 343. (109 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2010 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 343. 1978 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2010 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2010 Opel Astra 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 | 2010 Opel Astra | |
Make | Volvo | Opel |
Model | 343 | Astra |
Year Released | 1978 | 2010 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 70 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 109 Nm | 262 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1625 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |