1996 Skoda Octavia vs. 1978 Volvo 343
To start off, 1996 Skoda Octavia is newer by 18 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 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Skoda Octavia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volvo 343 (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1996 Skoda Octavia. (67 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 343 should accelerate faster than 1996 Skoda Octavia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 235 kg more 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, 1996 Skoda Octavia, 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, 1996 Skoda Octavia (133 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 343. (109 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 343. 1978 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 1996 Skoda Octavia has manual transmission. 1996 Skoda Octavia 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:
| 1996 Skoda Octavia | 1978 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Skoda | Volvo |
| Model | Octavia | 343 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1894 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
