1976 Chrysler 1609 vs. 2012 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2012 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Chrysler 1609. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Chrysler 1609 would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (182 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler 1609. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 648 kg more than 1976 Chrysler 1609. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Chrysler 1609 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 Chrysler 1609. 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, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (233 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler 1609. (133 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler 1609. 2012 Buick LaCrosse has automatic transmission and 1976 Chrysler 1609 has manual transmission. 1976 Chrysler 1609 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler 1609 | 2012 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | Chrysler | Buick |
| Model | 1609 | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1639 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1092 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 5001 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2837 mm |
