1997 Pontiac Sunfire vs. 1979 Volvo 343
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Sunfire is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 2,200 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Sunfire (114 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Sunfire should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Sunfire weights approximately 210 kg more than 1979 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Sunfire, 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, 1997 Pontiac Sunfire (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Sunfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 343. 1979 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 1997 Pontiac Sunfire has manual transmission. 1997 Pontiac Sunfire will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Pontiac Sunfire | 1979 Volvo 343 | |
Make | Pontiac | Volvo |
Model | Sunfire | 343 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2200 cc | 1397 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 108 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 990 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |