1978 Buick LeSabre vs. 2008 Pontiac Torrent
To start off, 2008 Pontiac Torrent 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac Torrent (185 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1978 Buick LeSabre. (104 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac Torrent should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 238 kg more than 2008 Pontiac Torrent.
Because 2008 Pontiac Torrent 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 Pontiac Torrent 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 Pontiac Torrent (285 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Buick LeSabre. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Pontiac Torrent will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Buick LeSabre.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Buick LeSabre | 2008 Pontiac Torrent | |
| Make | Buick | Pontiac |
| Model | LeSabre | Torrent |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3423 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1352 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2860 mm |
