1989 Buick Electra vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Buick Electra would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Buick Electra (163 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2008 Volvo S40. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Buick Electra should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Buick Electra weights approximately 220 kg more than 2008 Volvo S40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1989 Buick Electra (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo S40. (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo S40. 1989 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 2008 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 2008 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Buick Electra | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Buick | Volvo |
| Model | Electra | S40 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1798 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2570 mm |
