1977 Buick LeSabre vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Buick LeSabre. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Buick LeSabre would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1977 Buick LeSabre. (105 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1977 Buick LeSabre.
Because 1977 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 1977 Buick LeSabre. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1977 Buick LeSabre (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1977 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. 1977 Buick LeSabre has automatic transmission and 2009 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Buick LeSabre will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Buick LeSabre | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | LeSabre | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2510 mm |
