2005 Buick LaCrosse vs. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit

To start off, 2005 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 3,564 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Buick LaCrosse (238 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 805 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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, 2005 Buick LaCrosse (311 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2005 Buick LaCrosse has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Buick LaCrosse 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit
Make Buick Volkswagen
Model LaCrosse Rabbit
Year Released 2005 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3564 cc 1457 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 238 HP 70 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 311 Nm 102 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1615 kg 810 kg
Vehicle Length 5040 mm 3950 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2820 mm 2410 mm