1978 Volkswagen Beetle 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 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Beetle 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 139 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 920 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | 2012 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Buick |
| Model | Beetle | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 5001 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1857 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2837 mm |
