1978 Buick LeSabre vs. 2008 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2008 Nissan Xterra is newer by 30 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1978 Buick LeSabre. (104 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 815 kg more than 1978 Buick LeSabre. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Nissan Xterra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Buick LeSabre. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Xterra 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, 2008 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Buick LeSabre. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Buick LeSabre. 1978 Buick LeSabre has automatic transmission and 2008 Nissan Xterra has manual transmission. 2008 Nissan Xterra 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 | 2008 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Buick | Nissan |
| Model | LeSabre | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 2405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2710 mm |
