2008 Mazda 6 vs. 1978 Volvo 343
To start off, 2008 Mazda 6 is newer by 30 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 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 6 (264 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 6 weights approximately 364 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, 2008 Mazda 6, 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 Mazda 6 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 271 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 343. (109 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 343. 1978 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 6 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:
2008 Mazda 6 | 1978 Volvo 343 | |
Make | Mazda | Volvo |
Model | 6 | 343 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1397 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 264 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 380 Nm | 109 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1354 kg | 990 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |