2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1979 Volvo 343
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 656 kg more than 1979 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 343. (108 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 343. 1979 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2008 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 2008 Hyundai Sonata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Volvo 343 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 1979 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volvo |
| Model | Sonata | 343 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3342 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1646 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
