2004 Holden Astra vs. 1978 Volvo 343
To start off, 2004 Holden Astra is newer by 26 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Holden Astra (124 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Holden Astra weights approximately 288 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, 2004 Holden Astra, 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, 2004 Holden Astra (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 343. (109 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 343. 1978 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2004 Holden Astra has manual transmission. 2004 Holden Astra 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:
2004 Holden Astra | 1978 Volvo 343 | |
Make | Holden | Volvo |
Model | Astra | 343 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1397 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 124 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 173 Nm | 109 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1278 kg | 990 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |