1980 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2011 Buick Lucerne
To start off, 2011 Buick Lucerne is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,900 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Buick Lucerne is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Buick Lucerne (227 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Buick Lucerne should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Buick Lucerne weights approximately 806 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 2011 Buick Lucerne (321 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (126 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2011 Buick Lucerne will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. 2011 Buick Lucerne has automatic transmission and 1980 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1980 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Buick Lucerne will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Volkswagen Passat | 2011 Buick Lucerne | |
Make | Volkswagen | Buick |
Model | Passat | Lucerne |
Year Released | 1980 | 2011 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3900 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 227 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 126 Nm | 321 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 1726 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 5161 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1875 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1473 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2936 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 68 L |