1979 Buick Regal vs. 2011 Cadillac DTS
To start off, 2011 Cadillac DTS is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Buick Regal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Buick Regal would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Cadillac DTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Cadillac DTS (275 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 1979 Buick Regal. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 1979 Buick Regal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Cadillac DTS weights approximately 388 kg more than 1979 Buick Regal. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Buick Regal 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 Regal. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Cadillac DTS, 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, 2011 Cadillac DTS (400 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Buick Regal. (217 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Cadillac DTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Buick Regal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Buick Regal | 2011 Cadillac DTS | |
| Make | Buick | Cadillac |
| Model | Regal | DTS |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3214 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1818 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 5273 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1463 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2936 mm |
