2005 Scion xA vs. 1978 Volvo 343
To start off, 2005 Scion xA 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 1,495 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Scion xA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Scion xA (106 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Scion xA should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Scion xA weights approximately 80 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 Scion xA, 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 Scion xA (142 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 343. (109 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Scion xA 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 Scion xA has manual transmission. 2005 Scion xA 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 Scion xA | 1978 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Scion | Volvo |
| Model | xA | 343 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1495 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1400 mm |
