1978 Buick Electra vs. 2010 Scion xD

To start off, 2010 Scion xD is newer by 32 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, 1978 Buick Electra (153 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2010 Scion xD. (128 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Buick Electra should accelerate faster than 2010 Scion xD. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Buick Electra weights approximately 595 kg more than 2010 Scion xD. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1978 Buick Electra 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 1978 Buick Electra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Scion xD, 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, 1978 Buick Electra (381 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Scion xD. (169 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1978 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Scion xD. 1978 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 2010 Scion xD has manual transmission. 2010 Scion xD 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 2010 Scion xD
Make Buick Scion
Model Electra xD
Year Released 1978 2010
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5730 cc 1800 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 153 HP 128 HP
Engine RPM 3400 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 381 Nm 169 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 4400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1785 kg 1190 kg
Vehicle Length 5650 mm 3929 mm
Vehicle Width 1970 mm 1725 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1524 mm
Wheelbase Size 3030 mm 2461 mm