1981 Buick LeSabre vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 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 5,736 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1981 Buick LeSabre. (105 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 490 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
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 Mazda 3, 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 (274 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (188 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1981 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 1981 Buick LeSabre has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 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 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Buick | Mazda |
| Model | LeSabre | 3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5736 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 274 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2650 mm |
