1988 Buick Reatta vs. 1999 Jensen SV-8
To start off, 1999 Jensen SV-8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Buick Reatta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Buick Reatta would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Jensen SV-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Jensen SV-8 (321 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1988 Buick Reatta. (165 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Jensen SV-8 should accelerate faster than 1988 Buick Reatta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Buick Reatta weights approximately 236 kg more than 1999 Jensen SV-8.
Because 1999 Jensen SV-8 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 1999 Jensen SV-8. 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, 1999 Jensen SV-8 (439 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Buick Reatta. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1999 Jensen SV-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Buick Reatta. 1988 Buick Reatta has automatic transmission and 1999 Jensen SV-8 has manual transmission. 1999 Jensen SV-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Buick Reatta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Buick Reatta | 1999 Jensen SV-8 | |
| Make | Buick | Jensen |
| Model | Reatta | SV-8 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 321 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 439 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1536 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2410 mm |
