2002 Buick LeSabre vs. 1986 Volvo 242
To start off, 2002 Buick LeSabre is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volvo 242. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volvo 242 would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Buick LeSabre (206 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1986 Volvo 242. (97 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Buick LeSabre should accelerate faster than 1986 Volvo 242. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 327 kg more than 1986 Volvo 242. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Volvo 242 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 1986 Volvo 242. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Buick LeSabre, 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, 2002 Buick LeSabre (311 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volvo 242. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2002 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volvo 242. 2002 Buick LeSabre has automatic transmission and 1986 Volvo 242 has manual transmission. 1986 Volvo 242 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Buick LeSabre will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Buick LeSabre | 1986 Volvo 242 | |
| Make | Buick | Volvo |
| Model | LeSabre | 242 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 206 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1617 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2660 mm |
