1978 Buick Regal vs. 1994 Volvo 850
To start off, 1994 Volvo 850 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick Regal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick Regal would be higher. At 3,214 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Buick Regal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Volvo 850 (240 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1978 Buick Regal. (90 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Regal.
Because 1978 Buick Regal 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 Regal. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Volvo 850, 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, 1994 Volvo 850 (407 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Buick Regal. (224 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1994 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Buick Regal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Buick Regal | 1994 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Buick | Volvo |
| Model | Regal | 850 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3214 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2670 mm |
