1981 Buick LeSabre vs. 2011 Buick Enclave
To start off, 2011 Buick Enclave is newer by 30 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, 2011 Buick Enclave (288 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1981 Buick LeSabre. (104 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Buick Enclave should accelerate faster than 1981 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Buick Enclave weights approximately 578 kg more than 1981 Buick LeSabre. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2011 Buick Enclave, 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, 2011 Buick Enclave (366 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Buick LeSabre. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Buick Enclave will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Buick LeSabre.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Buick LeSabre | 2011 Buick Enclave | |
Make | Buick | Buick |
Model | LeSabre | Enclave |
Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3790 cc | 3600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 288 HP |
Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 251 Nm | 366 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 2168 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 5126 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 2007 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3020 mm |