1978 Buick LeSabre vs. 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix is newer by 11 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, 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix (158 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1978 Buick LeSabre. (104 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 155 kg more than 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix.
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, 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix. (203 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 1978 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix. 1978 Buick LeSabre has automatic transmission and 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix has manual transmission. 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 | 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
Make | Buick | Pontiac |
Model | LeSabre | Grand Prix |
Year Released | 1978 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2260 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 251 Nm | 203 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1435 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2740 mm |