1971 BMW 3 vs. 1989 Buick Reatta
To start off, 1989 Buick Reatta is newer by 18 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 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Buick Reatta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1989 Buick Reatta. (165 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Buick Reatta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Buick Reatta weights approximately 152 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, 1989 Buick Reatta, 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, 1989 Buick Reatta (285 Nm) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm). This means 1989 Buick Reatta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 1989 Buick Reatta 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. 1989 Buick Reatta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1989 Buick Reatta | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 3 | Reatta |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1532 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 62 L |
