1971 BMW 3 vs. 1986 Buick Electra
To start off, 1986 Buick Electra is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1986 Buick Electra. (138 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Buick Electra weights approximately 100 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
Because 1971 BMW 3 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 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Buick Electra, 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, 1986 Buick Electra (271 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1986 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 1986 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 1971 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1971 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1986 Buick Electra | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 3 | Electra |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2820 mm |
