1981 Buick LeSabre vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 23 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, 2004 Volvo S40 (170 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1981 Buick LeSabre. (104 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1981 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 335 kg more than 2004 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, 2004 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) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volvo S40. (240 Nm). This means 1981 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Buick LeSabre | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Buick | Volvo |
| Model | LeSabre | S40 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3790 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2670 mm |
