1990 Buick Electra vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Buick Electra would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1990 Buick Electra. (163 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1990 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Buick Electra weights approximately 140 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40.
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, 2003 Volvo S40 (321 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Buick Electra. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Buick Electra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Buick Electra | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Buick | Volvo |
| Model | Electra | S40 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2650 mm |
