1982 Buick LeSabre vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 30 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, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1982 Buick LeSabre. (104 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1982 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 366 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen T5.
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, 2012 Volkswagen T5, 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 T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Buick LeSabre. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Buick LeSabre. 1982 Buick LeSabre has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen T5 has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen T5 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 | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | LeSabre | T5 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5550 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3010 mm |
