1979 Buick Century vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,214 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S40 (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1979 Buick Century. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1979 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Buick Century weights approximately 75 kg more than 2008 Volvo S40.
Because 1979 Buick Century 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 1979 Buick Century. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1979 Buick Century (218 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo S40. (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Buick Century | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Buick | Volvo |
| Model | Century | S40 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3214 cc | 1798 cc |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2570 mm |
