1987 Buick LeSabre vs. 1961 Chrysler Imperial
To start off, 1987 Buick LeSabre is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Chrysler Imperial. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Chrysler Imperial would be higher. At 5,802 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 Chrysler Imperial is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Chrysler Imperial (276 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1987 Buick LeSabre. (148 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Chrysler Imperial should accelerate faster than 1987 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Chrysler Imperial weights approximately 860 kg more than 1987 Buick LeSabre. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Chrysler Imperial 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 1961 Chrysler Imperial. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Buick LeSabre, 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, 1961 Chrysler Imperial (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Buick LeSabre. (271 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1961 Chrysler Imperial will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Buick LeSabre.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Buick LeSabre | 1961 Chrysler Imperial | |
| Make | Buick | Chrysler |
| Model | LeSabre | Imperial |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 5802 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 2360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 6170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 3800 mm |
