2006 Buick LaCrosse vs. 2008 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Buick LaCrosse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Buick LaCrosse would be higher. At 3,556 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Buick LaCrosse (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2008 Saturn Astra. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 2008 Saturn Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 211 kg more than 2008 Saturn Astra. 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, 2006 Buick LaCrosse (305 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Saturn Astra. (171 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Saturn Astra. 2006 Buick LaCrosse has automatic transmission and 2008 Saturn Astra has manual transmission. 2008 Saturn Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Buick LaCrosse | 2008 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Buick | Saturn |
| Model | LaCrosse | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3556 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1946 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 46 L |
