1978 Volvo 343 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 33 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 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 343 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Polo (178 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 279 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, 2011 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 2011 Volkswagen Polo (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 343. (109 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volvo 343 | 2011 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 343 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1269 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1682 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1462 mm |
