1983 Buick Electra vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Buick Electra would be higher. At 4,129 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 123 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. 1983 Buick Electra weights approximately 239 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40.
Because 1983 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 1983 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, 1983 Buick Electra (279 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1983 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40. 1983 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. 1983 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Buick Electra | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Buick | Volvo |
| Model | Electra | S40 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4129 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 279 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100.7 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5600 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 62 L |
