2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1978 Volvo 343
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A 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 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (90 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 235 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 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 Mercedes-Benz A (140 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 343. (109 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A 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 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A 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 Mercedes-Benz A | 1978 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | A | 343 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1400 mm |
