2004 Buick Century vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2004 Buick Century is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 3,134 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Buick Century (176 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Buick Century weights approximately 150 kg more than 1981 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Volvo 240 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 1981 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Buick Century, 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, 2004 Buick Century (264 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240. 2004 Buick Century has automatic transmission and 1981 Volvo 240 has manual transmission. 1981 Volvo 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Buick Century will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Buick Century | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
Make | Buick | Volvo |
Model | Century | 240 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3134 cc | 2383 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 176 HP | 81 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 264 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 76.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 23.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1370 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2660 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 60 L |