2004 Buick Regal vs. 1978 Holden GTS
To start off, 2004 Buick Regal is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Holden GTS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Holden GTS would be higher. At 4,141 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Holden GTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Buick Regal (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1978 Holden GTS. (158 HP @ 4550 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Buick Regal should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden GTS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Buick Regal weights approximately 46 kg more than 1978 Holden GTS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Holden GTS 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 1978 Holden GTS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Buick Regal, 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, 1978 Holden GTS (327 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Buick Regal. (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Holden GTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Buick Regal. 2004 Buick Regal has automatic transmission and 1978 Holden GTS has manual transmission. 1978 Holden GTS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Buick Regal will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Buick Regal | 1978 Holden GTS | |
| Make | Buick | Holden |
| Model | Regal | GTS |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 4141 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 327 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1521 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2830 mm |
