1978 Buick LeSabre vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick LeSabre. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick LeSabre would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (133 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1978 Buick LeSabre. (104 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 20 kg more than 2004 Volvo S40.
Because 1978 Buick LeSabre 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 LeSabre. 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, 2004 Volvo S40 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Buick LeSabre. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Buick LeSabre. 1978 Buick LeSabre has automatic transmission and 2004 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 2004 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Buick LeSabre will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Buick LeSabre | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Buick | Volvo |
Model | LeSabre | S40 |
Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1983 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 133 HP |
Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 251 Nm | 340 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1570 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2570 mm |