1999 Citroen Xsara vs. 1978 Volvo 343
To start off, 1999 Citroen Xsara is newer by 21 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 1,527 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Citroen Xsara (90 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 250 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, 1999 Citroen Xsara, 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, 1999 Citroen Xsara (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 343. (109 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 343. 1978 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 1999 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 1999 Citroen Xsara 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:
| 1999 Citroen Xsara | 1978 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volvo |
| Model | Xsara | 343 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1527 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 135 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 | 1240 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1400 mm |
