1980 Buick Electra vs. 1999 GMC Sonoma
To start off, 1999 GMC Sonoma is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Buick Electra would be higher. At 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 GMC Sonoma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 GMC Sonoma (177 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1980 Buick Electra. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 GMC Sonoma should accelerate faster than 1980 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Buick Electra weights approximately 190 kg more than 1999 GMC Sonoma.
Because 1999 GMC Sonoma is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Buick Electra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 GMC Sonoma 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, 1999 GMC Sonoma (332 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Buick Electra. (278 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1999 GMC Sonoma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Buick Electra. 1980 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 1999 GMC Sonoma has manual transmission. 1999 GMC Sonoma 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 | 1999 GMC Sonoma | |
| Make | Buick | GMC |
| Model | Electra | Sonoma |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4129 cc | 4293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 332 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5650 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 3130 mm |
