1972 BMW 3 vs. 1999 Buick Century
To start off, 1999 Buick Century is newer by 27 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 3,134 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1999 Buick Century. (165 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Buick Century weights approximately 146 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, 1999 Buick Century, 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, 1972 BMW 3 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Buick Century. (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Buick Century. 1999 Buick Century 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. 1999 Buick Century will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 3 | 1999 Buick Century | |
Make | BMW | Buick |
Model | 3 | Century |
Year Released | 1972 | 1999 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3134 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 165 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 251 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1520 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2780 mm |