1978 Holden GTS vs. 2012 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2012 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Holden GTS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Holden GTS would be higher. At 4,141 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Holden GTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (182 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1978 Holden GTS. (158 HP @ 4550 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden GTS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 265 kg more than 1978 Holden GTS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Holden GTS 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 Holden GTS. 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, 1978 Holden GTS (327 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Buick LaCrosse. (233 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1978 Holden GTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Buick LaCrosse. 2012 Buick LaCrosse has automatic transmission and 1978 Holden GTS has manual transmission. 1978 Holden GTS 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:
| 1978 Holden GTS | 2012 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | Holden | Buick |
| Model | GTS | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4141 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4550 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 327 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5001 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2837 mm |
