1976 Buick Electra vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Buick Electra would be higher. At 6,598 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Buick Electra (182 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2004 Volvo S40. (160 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Buick Electra should accelerate faster than 2004 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Buick Electra weights approximately 407 kg more than 2004 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Buick Electra 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 1976 Buick Electra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1976 Buick Electra (435 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volvo S40. (225 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1976 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Buick Electra | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Buick | Volvo |
| Model | Electra | S40 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6598 cc | 2507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 435 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1805 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5650 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2650 mm |
