2006 Toyota Highlander vs. 1978 Volvo 343
To start off, 2006 Toyota Highlander is newer by 28 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 3,310 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Toyota Highlander (215 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 343.
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, 2006 Toyota Highlander, 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, 2006 Toyota Highlander (301 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 343. (109 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Toyota Highlander | 1978 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Toyota | Volvo |
| Model | Highlander | 343 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3310 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1400 mm |
