1978 Buick Electra vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 30 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1978 Buick Electra. (153 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Buick Electra weights approximately 435 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Buick Electra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 1978 Buick Electra (381 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1978 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. 1978 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Buick Electra | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
Model | Electra | Passat |
Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5730 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 153 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 381 Nm | 281 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5650 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2720 mm |