1981 Buick LeSabre vs. 2009 Ford Mondeo

To start off, 2009 Ford Mondeo is newer by 28 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 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Mondeo (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1981 Buick LeSabre. (104 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Mondeo should accelerate faster than 1981 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 221 kg more than 2009 Ford Mondeo.

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, 2009 Ford Mondeo, 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, 1981 Buick LeSabre (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Mondeo. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1981 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Mondeo. 1981 Buick LeSabre has automatic transmission and 2009 Ford Mondeo has manual transmission. 2009 Ford Mondeo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Buick LeSabre will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Buick LeSabre 2009 Ford Mondeo
Make Buick Ford
Model LeSabre Mondeo
Year Released 1981 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3790 cc 1999 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 104 HP 143 HP
Engine RPM 3400 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 251 Nm 190 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1590 kg 1369 kg
Vehicle Length 5550 mm 4740 mm
Vehicle Width 1910 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2950 mm 2760 mm