2005 Opel Astra vs. 1978 Volvo 343
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra 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 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 403 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 Opel 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, 2005 Opel Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 343. (109 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Astra | 1978 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Astra | 343 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
