1987 Buick Electra vs. 1979 Pontiac Trans Am
To start off, 1987 Buick Electra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Pontiac Trans Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Trans Am would be higher. At 6,555 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Trans Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am (220 HP) has 81 more horse power than 1987 Buick Electra. (139 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am should accelerate faster than 1987 Buick Electra.
Because 1979 Pontiac Trans Am 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 1979 Pontiac Trans Am. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Buick Electra, 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, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am (434 Nm) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Buick Electra. (271 Nm). This means 1979 Pontiac Trans Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Buick Electra. 1987 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 1979 Pontiac Trans Am has manual transmission. 1979 Pontiac Trans Am will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1987 Buick Electra | 1979 Pontiac Trans Am | |
Make | Buick | Pontiac |
Model | Electra | Trans Am |
Year Released | 1987 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 6555 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 220 HP |
Torque | 271 Nm | 434 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 104.7 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 95.3 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 5040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2750 mm |