1978 Buick LeSabre vs. 2009 Volvo S80
To start off, 2009 Volvo S80 is newer by 31 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, 2009 Volvo S80 (235 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1978 Buick LeSabre. (104 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 9 kg more than 2009 Volvo S80.
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, 2009 Volvo S80, 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, 2009 Volvo S80 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Buick LeSabre. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Buick LeSabre.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Buick LeSabre | 2009 Volvo S80 | |
Make | Buick | Volvo |
Model | LeSabre | S80 |
Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3192 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 235 HP |
Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 251 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1581 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4860 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2840 mm |