1982 Buick LeSabre vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 22 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1982 Buick LeSabre. (104 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1982 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 359 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 @ 2000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1982 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Buick LeSabre | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | LeSabre | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1896 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 | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2590 mm |
