1988 Buick Electra vs. 1978 Buick Regal
To start off, 1988 Buick Electra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick Regal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick Regal 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 59 more horse power than 1978 Buick Regal. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Buick Electra should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Regal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Buick Electra weights approximately 145 kg more than 1978 Buick Regal. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Buick Regal 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 1978 Buick Regal. 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 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Buick Regal. (218 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1988 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Buick Regal.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Buick Electra | 1978 Buick Regal | |
Make | Buick | Buick |
Model | Electra | Regal |
Year Released | 1988 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3214 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 285 Nm | 218 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1430 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 5090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2750 mm |