1983 Buick LeSabre vs. 1978 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 1983 Buick LeSabre is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Buick LeSabre (104 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Buick LeSabre should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 905 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1983 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 1983 Buick LeSabre. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Polo, 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 LeSabre (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. 1983 Buick LeSabre has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 Buick LeSabre will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1983 Buick LeSabre 1978 Volkswagen Polo
Make Buick Volkswagen
Model LeSabre Polo
Year Released 1983 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3791 cc 1093 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 104 HP 49 HP
Engine RPM 3400 RPM 5900 RPM
Torque 251 Nm 77 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1590 kg 685 kg
Vehicle Length 5550 mm 3510 mm
Vehicle Width 1910 mm 1570 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2950 mm 2340 mm


 

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