1988 Buick Reatta vs. 1978 Buick Electra

To start off, 1988 Buick Reatta is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick Electra would be higher. At 5,730 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Buick Reatta (165 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1978 Buick Electra. (153 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Buick Reatta should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Buick Electra weights approximately 249 kg more than 1988 Buick Reatta.

Because 1978 Buick Electra 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 Electra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Buick Reatta, 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, 1978 Buick Electra (381 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Buick Reatta. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1978 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Buick Reatta.

Compare all specifications:

1988 Buick Reatta 1978 Buick Electra
Make Buick Buick
Model Reatta Electra
Year Released 1988 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3791 cc 5730 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 165 HP 153 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 3400 RPM
Torque 285 Nm 381 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 1800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 96.5 mm 96.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86.4 mm 97.8 mm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1536 kg 1785 kg
Vehicle Length 4670 mm 5650 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1970 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2510 mm 3030 mm


 

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