2009 Buick LaCrosse vs. 1996 Nissan Terrano
To start off, 2009 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Nissan Terrano. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Nissan Terrano 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 77 more horse power than 1996 Nissan Terrano. (123 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1996 Nissan Terrano. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Nissan Terrano weights approximately 233 kg more than 2009 Buick LaCrosse.
Because 1996 Nissan Terrano is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Buick LaCrosse. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Nissan Terrano will offer significantly more control. 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 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Nissan Terrano. (221 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Nissan Terrano. 2009 Buick LaCrosse has automatic transmission and 1996 Nissan Terrano has manual transmission. 1996 Nissan Terrano 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 | 1996 Nissan Terrano | |
| Make | Buick | Nissan |
| Model | LaCrosse | Terrano |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 123 HP |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1617 kg | 1850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2660 mm |
