2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1974 Volvo 343
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 343. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 343 would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (162 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 1442 kg more than 1974 Volvo 343. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Volvo 343. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (159 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 343. (107 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Malibu | 1974 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Malibu | 343 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2385 kg | 943 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 45 L |
