1972 BMW 3 vs. 1988 Buick Electra
To start off, 1988 Buick Electra is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1988 Buick Electra. (163 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Buick Electra weights approximately 305 kg more than 1972 BMW 3.
Because 1972 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 1972 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1988 Buick Electra (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1988 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3. 1988 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 3 | 1988 Buick Electra | |
Make | BMW | Buick |
Model | 3 | Electra |
Year Released | 1972 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3003 cc | 3791 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 272 Nm | 285 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 96.6 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 | 1270 kg | 1575 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2820 mm |