2009 Buick Lucerne vs. 1971 Dodge Challenger

To start off, 2009 Buick Lucerne is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Dodge Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Dodge Challenger would be higher. At 3,879 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Buick Lucerne is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Buick Lucerne (227 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1971 Dodge Challenger. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Buick Lucerne should accelerate faster than 1971 Dodge Challenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Buick Lucerne weights approximately 147 kg more than 1971 Dodge Challenger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1971 Dodge Challenger 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 1971 Dodge Challenger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Buick Lucerne, 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 Lucerne (321 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Dodge Challenger. (233 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Buick Lucerne will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Dodge Challenger.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Buick Lucerne 1971 Dodge Challenger
Make Buick Dodge
Model Lucerne Challenger
Year Released 2009 1971
Body Type Sedan Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3879 cc 3685 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 227 HP 123 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 321 Nm 233 Nm
Torque RPM 2300 RPM 2400 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1617 kg 1470 kg
Vehicle Length 5170 mm 4870 mm
Vehicle Width 1880 mm 1940 mm
Vehicle Height 1480 mm 1290 mm
Wheelbase Size 2940 mm 2800 mm