2005 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1978 Volvo 343
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 27 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 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 201 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, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 343. (109 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 343. 1978 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier has manual transmission. 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier 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:
| 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1978 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Cavalier | 343 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
