1994 Volvo 460 vs. 1978 Volvo 343
To start off, 1994 Volvo 460 is newer by 16 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 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Volvo 460 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Volvo 460 (119 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Volvo 460 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Volvo 460 weights approximately 100 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, 1994 Volvo 460, 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, 1994 Volvo 460 (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 343. (109 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1994 Volvo 460 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 343. 1978 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 1994 Volvo 460 has manual transmission. 1994 Volvo 460 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:
| 1994 Volvo 460 | 1978 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Volvo | Volvo |
| Model | 460 | 343 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1400 mm |
