1978 Buick Electra vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick Electra would be higher. At 5,730 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Buick Electra (153 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2006 Volvo S40. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Buick Electra should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo S40.
Because 1978 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 1978 Buick Electra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1978 Buick Electra (381 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volvo S40. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volvo S40. 1978 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 2006 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 2006 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Buick Electra | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Buick | Volvo |
Model | Electra | S40 |
Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5730 cc | 1948 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 153 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 381 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 97.8 mm | 90 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 5650 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2570 mm |