1976 Buick LeSabre vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Buick LeSabre. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Buick LeSabre would be higher. At 6,598 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1976 Buick LeSabre. (182 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1976 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 295 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1976 Buick LeSabre 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 1976 Buick LeSabre. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 1976 Buick LeSabre (435 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 1976 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Buick LeSabre | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
Model | LeSabre | Beetle |
Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 6598 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 182 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 435 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2537 mm |