1988 Buick Electra vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Buick Electra 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 48 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (115 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Buick Electra should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Buick Electra weights approximately 175 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. 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 116 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. 1988 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
Model | Electra | Jetta |
Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 285 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4644 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1778 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1482 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2651 mm |