1996 Buick LeSabre vs. 1983 Holden Commodore

To start off, 1996 Buick LeSabre is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Buick LeSabre (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1983 Holden Commodore. (78 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Buick LeSabre should accelerate faster than 1983 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 330 kg more than 1983 Holden Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1983 Holden Commodore 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 1983 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Buick LeSabre, 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, 1996 Buick LeSabre (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Holden Commodore. (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1996 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Holden Commodore. 1996 Buick LeSabre has automatic transmission and 1983 Holden Commodore has manual transmission. 1983 Holden Commodore will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Buick LeSabre will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Buick LeSabre 1983 Holden Commodore
Make Buick Holden
Model LeSabre Commodore
Year Released 1996 1983
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3791 cc 1891 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 202 HP 78 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 4600 RPM
Torque 312 Nm 140 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1490 kg 1160 kg
Vehicle Length 5090 mm 4710 mm
Vehicle Width 1910 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2820 mm 2670 mm