1988 Buick Skylark vs. 1978 Buick LeSabre
To start off, 1988 Buick Skylark is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick LeSabre. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick LeSabre would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Buick Skylark (158 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1978 Buick LeSabre. (104 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Buick Skylark should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 385 kg more than 1988 Buick Skylark.
Because 1978 Buick LeSabre 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 LeSabre. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Buick Skylark, 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, both vehicles can yield 251 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Buick Skylark | 1978 Buick LeSabre | |
| Make | Buick | Buick |
| Model | Skylark | LeSabre |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3331 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 5550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2950 mm |
