1981 Buick LeSabre vs. 2012 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2012 Toyota Matrix is newer by 31 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 5,736 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Toyota Matrix (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1981 Buick LeSabre. (105 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 1981 Buick LeSabre.
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, 2012 Toyota Matrix, 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 (274 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Toyota Matrix. (219 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Toyota Matrix.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Buick LeSabre | 2012 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Buick | Toyota |
| Model | LeSabre | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5736 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 274 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1549 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2601 mm |
