1978 BMW 520 vs. 2008 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2008 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 520 would be higher. At 3,801 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Buick LaCrosse (200 HP) has 65 more horse power than 1978 BMW 520. (135 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 276 kg more than 1978 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 BMW 520 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 1978 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Buick LaCrosse (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 520. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 520. 2008 Buick LaCrosse has automatic transmission and 1978 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1978 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 520 | 2008 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 520 | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1951 cc | 3801 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 312 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1946 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 5 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 8.1 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.1 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
