1989 Buick Electra vs. 1982 Toyota Carina

To start off, 1989 Buick Electra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Toyota Carina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Toyota Carina would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Buick Electra (163 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1982 Toyota Carina. (57 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Buick Electra should accelerate faster than 1982 Toyota Carina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Buick Electra weights approximately 475 kg more than 1982 Toyota Carina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1982 Toyota Carina 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 1982 Toyota Carina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Buick Electra, 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, 1989 Buick Electra (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Toyota Carina. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Toyota Carina.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Buick Electra 1982 Toyota Carina
Make Buick Toyota
Model Electra Carina
Year Released 1989 1982
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3791 cc 1839 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 163 HP 57 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 4500 RPM
Torque 285 Nm 106 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Front Rear
Vehicle Weight 1575 kg 1100 kg
Vehicle Length 4990 mm 4390 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2820 mm 2510 mm