1978 Volvo 343 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 34 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 1,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (138 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 343.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, 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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (200 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 343. (109 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Volvo 343 | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
Make | Volvo | Chevrolet |
Model | 343 | Cruze |
Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 70 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Torque | 109 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1850 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4597 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1788 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1476 mm |