1973 Chrysler Valiant vs. 2012 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2012 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 3,523 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (182 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 320 kg more than 1973 Chrysler Valiant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Chrysler Valiant 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 1973 Chrysler Valiant. 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, 1973 Chrysler Valiant (272 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Buick LaCrosse. (233 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1973 Chrysler Valiant will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Buick LaCrosse.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Chrysler Valiant | 2012 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | Chrysler | Buick |
| Model | Valiant | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3523 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 5001 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2837 mm |
