1998 Saab 900i vs. 1978 Volvo 343
To start off, 1998 Saab 900i 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 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Saab 900i is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Saab 900i (126 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Saab 900i should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Saab 900i weights approximately 305 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, 1998 Saab 900i, 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 Saab 900i (170 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 343. (109 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Saab 900i 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 Saab 900i has manual transmission. 1998 Saab 900i 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 Saab 900i | 1978 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Saab | Volvo |
| Model | 900i | 343 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
