1981 Buick LeSabre vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 1981 Buick LeSabre is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Buick LeSabre (104 HP) has 55 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Buick LeSabre should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 645 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1981 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 1981 Buick LeSabre. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1981 Buick LeSabre (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. 1981 Buick LeSabre has automatic transmission and 1979 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1979 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Buick LeSabre will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

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