1969 Buick GS vs. 2009 Volvo S40

To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Buick GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Buick GS would be higher. At 5,724 cc (8 cylinders), 1969 Buick GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S40 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1969 Buick GS. (190 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1969 Buick GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Buick GS weights approximately 291 kg more than 2009 Volvo S40.

Because 1969 Buick GS 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 1969 Buick GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40, 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, 1969 Buick GS (395 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volvo S40. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1969 Buick GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volvo S40. 2009 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1969 Buick GS has manual transmission. 1969 Buick GS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1969 Buick GS 2009 Volvo S40
Make Buick Volvo
Model GS S40
Year Released 1969 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5724 cc 2521 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 190 HP 227 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 395 Nm 320 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 1500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1630 kg 1339 kg
Vehicle Length 5180 mm 4470 mm
Vehicle Width 1960 mm 1460 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1780 mm
Wheelbase Size 2860 mm 2650 mm