1996 Vector M12 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 Vector M12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Vector M12 would be higher. At 5,707 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Vector M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Vector M12 (484 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 302 more horse power than 2012 Buick LaCrosse. (182 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Vector M12 should accelerate faster than 2012 Buick LaCrosse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 110 kg more than 1996 Vector M12.
Because 1996 Vector M12 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 1996 Vector M12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse, 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, 1996 Vector M12 (576 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 343 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Buick LaCrosse. (233 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1996 Vector M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Buick LaCrosse. 2012 Buick LaCrosse has automatic transmission and 1996 Vector M12 has manual transmission. 1996 Vector M12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Vector M12 | 2012 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | Vector | Buick |
| Model | M12 | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 5707 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 484 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 576 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 5001 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2837 mm |
