2001 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1980 Volvo 343
To start off, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 390 kg more than 1980 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 2001 Chevrolet Malibu (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chevrolet Malibu | 1980 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Malibu | 343 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
