1983 Buick Electra vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Buick Electra would be higher. At 4,129 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (172 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1983 Buick Electra. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1983 Buick Electra.
Because 1983 Buick Electra 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 1983 Buick Electra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1983 Buick Electra (279 Nm) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (235 Nm). This means 1983 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 1983 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Buick Electra | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Electra | Golf |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4129 cc | 2801 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 279 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 100.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5600 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2480 mm |
