1980 Buick LeSabre vs. 2013 Chevrolet Traverse
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Buick LeSabre. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Buick LeSabre would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Traverse (277 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1980 Buick LeSabre. (104 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1980 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 545 kg more than 1980 Buick LeSabre. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Buick LeSabre 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 1980 Buick LeSabre. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Traverse, 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, 2013 Chevrolet Traverse (361 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Buick LeSabre. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Buick LeSabre.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Buick LeSabre | 2013 Chevrolet Traverse | |
| Make | Buick | Chevrolet |
| Model | LeSabre | Traverse |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 277 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 361 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1596 kg | 2141 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 5173 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1991 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1846 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3020 mm |
