1996 Buick Skylark vs. 2004 Volvo S40
To start off, 2004 Volvo S40 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Buick Skylark. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Buick Skylark would be higher. At 3,130 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Buick Skylark is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1996 Buick Skylark. (155 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1996 Buick Skylark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S40 weights approximately 102 kg more than 1996 Buick Skylark. 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, 2004 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Buick Skylark. (252 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Buick Skylark.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Buick Skylark | 2004 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Buick | Volvo |
| Model | Skylark | S40 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3130 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1323 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 68 L |
