1979 Buick LeSabre vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Buick LeSabre. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Buick LeSabre would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (232 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1979 Buick LeSabre. (104 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1979 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 189 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
Because 1979 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 1979 Buick LeSabre. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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 Volkswagen GTI (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Buick LeSabre. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Buick LeSabre. 1979 Buick LeSabre has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen GTI has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen GTI will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Buick LeSabre will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Buick LeSabre | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | LeSabre | GTI |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1401 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2578 mm |
