2001 Smart ForTwo vs. 1978 Volvo 343
To start off, 2001 Smart ForTwo is newer by 23 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 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 343 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Smart ForTwo (74 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volvo 343 weights approximately 170 kg more than 2001 Smart ForTwo.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1978 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2001 Smart ForTwo has manual transmission. 2001 Smart ForTwo 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:
| 2001 Smart ForTwo | 1978 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Smart | Volvo |
| Model | ForTwo | 343 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 698 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2510 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1400 mm |
