1971 BMW 3 vs. 2007 Buick LaCrosse

To start off, 2007 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 36 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 3,564 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Buick LaCrosse (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 566 kg more than 1971 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2007 Buick LaCrosse, 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, 2007 Buick LaCrosse (306 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2007 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2007 Buick LaCrosse 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. 2007 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1971 BMW 3 2007 Buick LaCrosse
Make BMW Buick
Model 3 LaCrosse
Year Released 1971 2007
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2986 cc 3564 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 180 HP 240 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 255 Nm 306 Nm
Torque RPM 3700 RPM 2000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1380 kg 1946 kg
Vehicle Length 4740 mm 5040 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2810 mm