1979 Buick Electra vs. 1998 Kia Elan

To start off, 1998 Kia Elan is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Buick Electra would be higher. At 4,942 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Kia Elan (151 HP) has 13 more horse power than 1979 Buick Electra. (138 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Kia Elan should accelerate faster than 1979 Buick Electra.

Because 1979 Buick Electra 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 1979 Buick Electra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Kia Elan, 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, 1979 Buick Electra (320 Nm) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Kia Elan. (186 Nm). This means 1979 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Kia Elan. 1979 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 1998 Kia Elan has manual transmission. 1998 Kia Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

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