2005 Honda Fit vs. 1978 Volvo 343

To start off, 2005 Honda Fit 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 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 343 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Honda Fit (82 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Honda Fit should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Honda Fit weights approximately 70 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 Honda Fit, 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 Honda Fit (119 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 343. (109 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Honda Fit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 343.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Honda Fit 1978 Volvo 343
Make Honda Volvo
Model Fit 343
Year Released 2005 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1339 cc 1397 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 82 HP 70 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 119 Nm 109 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1060 kg 990 kg
Vehicle Length 4320 mm 4210 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1490 mm 1400 mm