1998 Opel Signum vs. 1978 Volvo 343
To start off, 1998 Opel Signum is newer by 20 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), 1998 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Signum (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volvo 343 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1998 Opel Signum.
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, 1998 Opel Signum, 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, 1998 Opel Signum (185 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 343. (109 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 343. 1978 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Signum has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Signum 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:
1998 Opel Signum | 1978 Volvo 343 | |
Make | Opel | Volvo |
Model | Signum | 343 |
Year Released | 1998 | 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 | 148 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 185 Nm | 109 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 855 kg | 990 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |