1978 Buick LeSabre vs. 1986 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1986 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick LeSabre. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick LeSabre would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Buick LeSabre (104 HP) has 51 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Buick LeSabre should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 715 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Buick LeSabre 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 LeSabre. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 LeSabre (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1978 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. 1978 Buick LeSabre has automatic transmission and 1986 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1986 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Buick LeSabre will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Buick LeSabre | 1986 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
Model | LeSabre | Jetta |
Year Released | 1978 | 1986 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1271 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 53 HP |
Torque | 251 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 875 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2480 mm |