1996 Buick Park Avenue vs. 1974 Volkswagen 181
To start off, 1996 Buick Park Avenue is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen 181. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen 181 would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Buick Park Avenue is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Buick Park Avenue weights approximately 860 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen 181.
Because 1974 Volkswagen 181 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 1974 Volkswagen 181. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Buick Park Avenue, 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. 1996 Buick Park Avenue has automatic transmission and 1974 Volkswagen 181 has manual transmission. 1974 Volkswagen 181 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Buick Park Avenue will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Buick Park Avenue | 1974 Volkswagen 181 | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Park Avenue | 181 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3800 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5260 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2410 mm |
