1979 Buick Electra vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Buick Electra would be higher. At 5,736 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1979 Buick Electra. (104 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1979 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Buick Electra weights approximately 400 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40.
Because 1979 Buick Electra 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 Electra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Buick Electra. (274 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Buick Electra. 1979 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 2003 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 2003 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Buick Electra | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Buick | Volvo |
Model | Electra | S40 |
Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5736 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 274 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1825 kg | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5650 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2650 mm |