2009 Buick LaCrosse vs. 1987 Nissan Vanette
To start off, 2009 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Nissan Vanette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Nissan Vanette 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) has 240 more horse power than 1987 Nissan Vanette. (60 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1987 Nissan Vanette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 398 kg more than 1987 Nissan Vanette. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Nissan Vanette 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 1987 Nissan Vanette. 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 315 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Nissan Vanette. (123 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Nissan Vanette. 2009 Buick LaCrosse has automatic transmission and 1987 Nissan Vanette has manual transmission. 1987 Nissan Vanette 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 | 1987 Nissan Vanette | |
| Make | Buick | Nissan |
| Model | LaCrosse | Vanette |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5325 cc | 1952 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 60 HP |
| Torque | 438 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1858 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2080 mm |
