1981 Buick LeSabre vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 1996 Volvo S40 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Buick LeSabre. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Buick LeSabre would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 104 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 360 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40.
Because 1981 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 1981 Buick LeSabre. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1981 Buick LeSabre (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1981 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40. 1981 Buick LeSabre has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Buick LeSabre will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Buick LeSabre | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Buick | Volvo |
Model | LeSabre | S40 |
Year Released | 1981 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3790 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 251 Nm | 143 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2560 mm |