1998 Buick Signia vs. 1980 Buick Electra
To start off, 1998 Buick Signia is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Buick Electra would be higher. At 5,032 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Buick Signia (238 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1980 Buick Electra. (138 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Buick Signia should accelerate faster than 1980 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Buick Signia weights approximately 15 kg more than 1980 Buick Electra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Buick Electra 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 1980 Buick Electra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Buick Signia, 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, 1998 Buick Signia (387 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Buick Electra. (325 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1998 Buick Signia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Buick Electra.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Buick Signia | 1980 Buick Electra | |
Make | Buick | Buick |
Model | Signia | Electra |
Year Released | 1998 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3800 cc | 5032 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 238 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Torque | 387 Nm | 325 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1725 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 5650 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1970 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 3030 mm |