1998 Buick Signia vs. 1983 Nissan Leopard
To start off, 1998 Buick Signia is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Nissan Leopard. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Nissan Leopard would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Buick Signia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Buick Signia (238 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1983 Nissan Leopard. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Buick Signia should accelerate faster than 1983 Nissan Leopard. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Buick Signia weights approximately 635 kg more than 1983 Nissan Leopard. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Nissan Leopard 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 Nissan Leopard. 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 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Nissan Leopard. (147 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Buick Signia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Nissan Leopard. 1998 Buick Signia has automatic transmission and 1983 Nissan Leopard has manual transmission. 1983 Nissan Leopard will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Buick Signia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Buick Signia | 1983 Nissan Leopard | |
| Make | Buick | Nissan |
| Model | Signia | Leopard |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3800 cc | 1770 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 387 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2630 mm |
