1978 Buick Electra vs. 2012 Volvo XC70
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC70 is newer by 34 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, 2012 Volvo XC70 (217 HP) has 64 more horse power than 1978 Buick Electra. (153 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC70 should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo XC70 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1978 Buick Electra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Volvo XC70 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Buick Electra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC70 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, 2012 Volvo XC70 (440 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Buick Electra. (381 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo XC70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Buick Electra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Buick Electra | 2012 Volvo XC70 | |
| Make | Buick | Volvo |
| Model | Electra | XC70 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5730 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 217 HP |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5650 mm | 4838 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1862 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1604 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2815 mm |
