1986 Fiat Croma vs. 1978 Volvo 343
To start off, 1986 Fiat Croma is newer by 8 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Fiat Croma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Fiat Croma (120 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Fiat Croma should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Fiat Croma weights approximately 130 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, 1986 Fiat Croma, 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, 1986 Fiat Croma (165 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 343. (109 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1986 Fiat Croma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 343. 1978 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 1986 Fiat Croma has manual transmission. 1986 Fiat Croma 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:
| 1986 Fiat Croma | 1978 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volvo |
| Model | Croma | 343 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
