2004 Buick LaCrosse vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Buick LaCrosse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Buick LaCrosse would be higher. At 3,564 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Buick LaCrosse (238 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (120 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 215 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 2004 Buick LaCrosse (311 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2004 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. 2004 Buick LaCrosse has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Buick LaCrosse | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | LaCrosse | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3564 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2651 mm |
