1980 Buick Electra vs. 1978 Lotus 79
To start off, 1980 Buick Electra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Lotus 79. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Lotus 79 would be higher. At 4,129 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Lotus 79 (484 HP @ 11000 RPM) has 361 more horse power than 1980 Buick Electra. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Lotus 79 should accelerate faster than 1980 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Buick Electra weights approximately 1100 kg more than 1978 Lotus 79.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1980 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 1978 Lotus 79 has manual transmission. 1978 Lotus 79 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Buick Electra | 1978 Lotus 79 | |
| Make | Buick | Lotus |
| Model | Electra | 79 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1978 |
| Engine Size | 4129 cc | 2992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 484 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 11000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 590 kg |
