1971 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2012 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 41 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (182 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 360 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, 2012 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, 1971 BMW 3 (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Buick LaCrosse. (233 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Buick LaCrosse. 2012 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. 2012 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2012 Buick LaCrosse | |
Make | BMW | Buick |
Model | 3 | LaCrosse |
Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 180 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
Torque | 255 Nm | 233 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1740 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5001 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1857 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1504 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2837 mm |