1979 Buick Electra vs. 2012 BMW X3
To start off, 2012 BMW X3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Buick Electra would be higher. At 4,942 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X3 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1979 Buick Electra. (138 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X3 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1979 Buick Electra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Buick Electra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 BMW X3 (380 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Buick Electra. (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Buick Electra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Buick Electra | 2012 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Buick | BMW |
| Model | Electra | X3 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5650 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1881 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1675 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2810 mm |
