1978 Buick LeSabre vs. 1997 Mazda 323
To start off, 1997 Mazda 323 is newer by 19 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, 1997 Mazda 323 (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1978 Buick LeSabre. (104 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 375 kg more than 1997 Mazda 323.
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, 1997 Mazda 323, 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 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 323. (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1978 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 323. 1978 Buick LeSabre has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda 323 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 | 1997 Mazda 323 | |
Make | Buick | Mazda |
Model | LeSabre | 323 |
Year Released | 1978 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 142 HP |
Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 251 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1215 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2620 mm |