1956 Buick 40 vs. 2012 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2012 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 56 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Buick 40 would be higher. At 5,279 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (303 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1956 Buick 40. (217 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1956 Buick 40.
Because 1956 Buick 40 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 1956 Buick 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse, 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, 1956 Buick 40 (433 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Buick LaCrosse. (358 Nm @ 5300 RPM). This means 1956 Buick 40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Buick LaCrosse.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Buick 40 | 2012 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | Buick | Buick |
| Model | 40 | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5279 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 303 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 433 Nm | 358 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1857 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2837 mm |
