2009 Buick LaCrosse vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Buick LaCrosse (200 HP) has 151 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 1001 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 2009 Buick LaCrosse (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. 2009 Buick LaCrosse has automatic transmission and 1979 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1979 Volkswagen Passat 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 | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | LaCrosse | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1946 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 45 L |
