1982 Buick LeSabre vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Buick LeSabre. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Buick LeSabre would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1982 Buick LeSabre. (104 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1982 Buick LeSabre.
Because 1982 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 1982 Buick LeSabre. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1982 Buick LeSabre (251 Nm) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (210 Nm). This means 1982 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 1982 Buick LeSabre has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Buick LeSabre will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Buick LeSabre | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | LeSabre | Passat |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2710 mm |
