1997 Toyota 4Runner vs. 2012 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2012 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota 4Runner. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota 4Runner would be higher. At 2,980 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (182 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1997 Toyota 4Runner. (123 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota 4Runner. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 110 kg more than 2012 Buick LaCrosse.
Because 1997 Toyota 4Runner 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, 1997 Toyota 4Runner 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, 1997 Toyota 4Runner (295 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Buick LaCrosse. (233 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1997 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Buick LaCrosse. 2012 Buick LaCrosse has automatic transmission and 1997 Toyota 4Runner has manual transmission. 1997 Toyota 4Runner 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:
| 1997 Toyota 4Runner | 2012 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | Toyota | Buick |
| Model | 4Runner | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2980 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1850 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1857 mm |
