1981 BMW 520 vs. 1984 Buick Electra
To start off, 1984 Buick Electra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 123 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Buick Electra weights approximately 230 kg more than 1981 BMW 520.
Because 1981 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 1981 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 1984 Buick Electra (264 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1984 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520. 1984 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1984 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 520 | 1984 Buick Electra | |
Make | BMW | Buick |
Model | 520 | Electra |
Year Released | 1981 | 1984 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3791 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 264 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 96.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 86.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1450 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2820 mm |