1996 Volvo 850 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 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (182 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (124 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 350 kg more than 1996 Volvo 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (233 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2012 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850. 2012 Buick LaCrosse has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo 850 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo 850 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 Volvo 850 2012 Buick LaCrosse
Make Volvo Buick
Model 850 LaCrosse
Year Released 1996 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1984 cc 2400 cc
Engine Cylinders 5 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 124 HP 182 HP
Engine RPM 6100 RPM 6700 RPM
Torque 170 Nm 233 Nm
Torque RPM 4800 RPM 4900 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline / Electric Hybrid
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1390 kg 1740 kg
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1857 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1504 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2837 mm


 

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