1988 Buick Electra vs. 1973 Chrysler Valiant
To start off, 1988 Buick Electra is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Buick Electra (163 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. (91 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Buick Electra should accelerate faster than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Buick Electra weights approximately 745 kg more than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Chrysler Valiant 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 1973 Chrysler Valiant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1988 Buick Electra (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. (123 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. 1988 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 1973 Chrysler Valiant has manual transmission. 1973 Chrysler Valiant will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Buick Electra | 1973 Chrysler Valiant | |
| Make | Buick | Chrysler |
| Model | Electra | Valiant |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2350 mm |
