1989 Buick Reatta vs. 1979 Subaru Rex
To start off, 1989 Buick Reatta is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Subaru Rex. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Subaru Rex would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Buick Reatta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Buick Reatta (165 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1979 Subaru Rex. (29 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Buick Reatta should accelerate faster than 1979 Subaru Rex. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Buick Reatta weights approximately 997 kg more than 1979 Subaru Rex. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Subaru Rex 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 1979 Subaru Rex. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Buick Reatta (285 Nm) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Subaru Rex. (42 Nm). This means 1989 Buick Reatta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Subaru Rex. 1989 Buick Reatta has automatic transmission and 1979 Subaru Rex has manual transmission. 1979 Subaru Rex will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Buick Reatta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Buick Reatta | 1979 Subaru Rex | |
| Make | Buick | Subaru |
| Model | Reatta | Rex |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3800 cc | 543 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 29 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1532 kg | 535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 3000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 1930 mm |
