2009 Buick LaCrosse vs. 1981 Buick LeSabre
To start off, 2009 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Buick LeSabre. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Buick LeSabre 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 196 more horse power than 1981 Buick LeSabre. (104 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1981 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 268 kg more than 1981 Buick LeSabre. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Buick LeSabre 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 1981 Buick LeSabre. 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 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Buick LeSabre. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Buick LeSabre.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Buick LaCrosse | 1981 Buick LeSabre | |
Make | Buick | Buick |
Model | LaCrosse | LeSabre |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5325 cc | 3790 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 300 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Torque | 438 Nm | 251 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1858 kg | 1590 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 5550 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1910 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2950 mm |