1981 Buick LeSabre vs. 2008 Lexus ES
To start off, 2008 Lexus ES is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Buick LeSabre. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Buick LeSabre would be higher. At 5,736 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus ES (272 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1981 Buick LeSabre. (105 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1981 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 345 kg more than 2008 Lexus ES.
Because 1981 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 1981 Buick LeSabre. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Lexus ES, 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, 2008 Lexus ES (344 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Buick LeSabre. (274 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Buick LeSabre.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Buick LeSabre | 2008 Lexus ES | |
| Make | Buick | Lexus |
| Model | LeSabre | ES |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5736 cc | 3441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 272 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 274 Nm | 344 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2780 mm |
