2009 Mazda 2 vs. 1978 Volvo 343
To start off, 2009 Mazda 2 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 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 2 (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 343. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 343. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volvo 343 weights approximately 30 kg more than 2009 Mazda 2.
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, 2009 Mazda 2, 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 Mazda 2 (137 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 343. (109 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 343. 1978 Volvo 343 has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 2 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 2 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:
| 2009 Mazda 2 | 1978 Volvo 343 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 2 | 343 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 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 | 960 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
