1971 BMW 3 vs. 1986 Buick LeSabre
To start off, 1986 Buick LeSabre 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 LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1986 Buick LeSabre. (148 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 120 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 LeSabre, 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 LeSabre (271 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1986 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 1986 Buick LeSabre | |
Make | BMW | Buick |
Model | 3 | LeSabre |
Year Released | 1971 | 1986 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3791 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 254 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 |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 8.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 5010 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2830 mm |