1981 Buick LeSabre vs. 2008 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Buick LeSabre. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Buick LeSabre would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1981 Buick LeSabre. (104 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1981 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 55 kg more than 1981 Buick LeSabre. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan, 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 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Sharan. (170 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1981 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Sharan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Buick LeSabre | 2008 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | LeSabre | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3790 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1645 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2850 mm |
