1980 Buick Electra vs. 1996 Volvo S80
To start off, 1996 Volvo S80 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Buick Electra would be higher. At 4,129 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo S80 (268 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1980 Buick Electra. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1980 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Buick Electra weights approximately 250 kg more than 1996 Volvo S80.
Because 1980 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 1980 Buick Electra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Volvo S80 (380 Nm) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Buick Electra. (278 Nm). This means 1996 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Buick Electra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Buick Electra | 1996 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Buick | Volvo |
| Model | Electra | S80 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4129 cc | 2978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5650 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2800 mm |
