1978 Buick Electra vs. 1981 Datsun 280
To start off, 1981 Datsun 280 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick Electra would be higher. At 5,730 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Datsun 280 (180 HP) has 27 more horse power than 1978 Buick Electra. (153 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Buick Electra weights approximately 355 kg more than 1981 Datsun 280.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Buick Electra | 1981 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Buick | Datsun |
| Model | Electra | 280 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5730 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 97.8 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5650 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2530 mm |
