1996 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 2012 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2012 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (303 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz G. (217 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 315 kg more than 2012 Buick LaCrosse.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Buick LaCrosse. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz G will offer significantly more control. 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 (358 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz G. (300 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz G.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz G | 2012 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Buick |
| Model | G | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 303 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 358 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2150 kg | 1835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 5001 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2837 mm |
