2009 Buick LaCrosse vs. 1978 Holden GTS
To start off, 2009 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Holden GTS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Holden GTS would be higher. At 5,325 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Buick LaCrosse (300 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1978 Holden GTS. (158 HP @ 4550 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden GTS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 383 kg more than 1978 Holden GTS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Holden GTS 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 1978 Holden GTS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Buick LaCrosse (438 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Holden GTS. (327 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Holden GTS. 2009 Buick LaCrosse has automatic transmission and 1978 Holden GTS has manual transmission. 1978 Holden GTS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Buick LaCrosse | 1978 Holden GTS | |
| Make | Buick | Holden |
| Model | LaCrosse | GTS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5325 cc | 4141 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Torque | 438 Nm | 327 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1858 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2830 mm |
