1979 Buick Electra vs. 2011 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 32 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, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1979 Buick Electra. (138 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen GTI 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, 2011 Volkswagen GTI, 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 @ 2000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen GTI. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1979 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen GTI. 1979 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen GTI has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen GTI 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.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Buick Electra | 2011 Volkswagen GTI | |
Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
Model | Electra | GTI |
Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4942 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 5650 mm | 4211 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1778 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1468 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2578 mm |