1988 Buick Electra vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1988 Buick Electra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Beetle 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 120 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Buick Electra should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Buick Electra weights approximately 755 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Buick Electra | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
Model | Electra | Beetle |
Year Released | 1988 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 285 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2410 mm |