1978 Chrysler Valiant vs. 2011 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2011 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Buick LaCrosse (280 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 415 kg more than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Chrysler Valiant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Buick LaCrosse (351 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. (277 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2011 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Chrysler Valiant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler Valiant | 2011 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | Chrysler | Buick |
| Model | Valiant | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 5001 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2837 mm |
