1981 Buick LeSabre vs. 2012 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan 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 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1981 Buick LeSabre. (104 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1981 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 204 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, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Buick LeSabre. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Buick LeSabre. 1981 Buick LeSabre has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Sharan has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Sharan 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.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Buick LeSabre | 2012 Volkswagen Sharan | |
Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
Model | LeSabre | Sharan |
Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3790 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 251 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1794 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4854 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1904 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1720 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2919 mm |