2009 Chevrolet Traverse vs. 1978 Volvo 343
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 31 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (288 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 218 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 271 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 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Volvo 343. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will offer significantly more control. 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 Traverse (366 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 343. (109 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 343.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Traverse | 1978 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volvo |
| Model | Traverse | 343 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 288 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1400 mm |
