2004 Buick LaCrosse vs. 1989 Ford Fairlane
To start off, 2004 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 3,949 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Buick LaCrosse (238 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1989 Ford Fairlane. (186 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 55 kg more than 1989 Ford Fairlane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Ford Fairlane 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 1989 Ford Fairlane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1989 Ford Fairlane (338 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Buick LaCrosse. (311 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Buick LaCrosse.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Buick LaCrosse | 1989 Ford Fairlane | |
| Make | Buick | Ford |
| Model | LaCrosse | Fairlane |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3564 cc | 3949 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 186 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2930 mm |
