2002 Hyundai Elantra vs. 2012 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2012 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Hyundai Elantra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Hyundai Elantra 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 166 more horse power than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. (137 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 640 kg more than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. 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 (358 Nm) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. (183 Nm). This means 2012 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. 2012 Buick LaCrosse has automatic transmission and 2002 Hyundai Elantra has manual transmission. 2002 Hyundai Elantra 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:
| 2002 Hyundai Elantra | 2012 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | Hyundai | Buick |
| Model | Elantra | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 303 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 358 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5001 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2837 mm |
