1971 Dodge Challenger vs. 2012 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2012 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Dodge Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Dodge Challenger would be higher. At 3,685 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (182 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1971 Dodge Challenger. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1971 Dodge Challenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 270 kg more than 1971 Dodge Challenger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Dodge Challenger 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 1971 Dodge Challenger. 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, both vehicles can yield 233 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Dodge Challenger | 2012 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | Dodge | Buick |
| Model | Challenger | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3685 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5001 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2837 mm |
