1981 Ford Granada vs. 2012 Buick LaCrosse

To start off, 2012 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Granada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Granada would be higher. At 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Granada is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (182 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1981 Ford Granada. (68 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Granada. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 370 kg more than 1981 Ford Granada. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1981 Ford Granada 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 Ford Granada. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse, 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 Buick LaCrosse (233 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Granada. (148 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Granada. 2012 Buick LaCrosse has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Granada has manual transmission. 1981 Ford Granada will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Ford Granada 2012 Buick LaCrosse
Make Ford Buick
Model Granada LaCrosse
Year Released 1981 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2499 cc 2400 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 68 HP 182 HP
Engine RPM 4200 RPM 6700 RPM
Torque 148 Nm 233 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4900 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline / Electric Hybrid
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed shiftable automatic
Vehicle Weight 1370 kg 1740 kg
Vehicle Length 4780 mm 5001 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1857 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1504 mm
Wheelbase Size 2780 mm 2837 mm


 

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