1986 BMW 316 vs. 2004 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2004 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 316 would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Buick LaCrosse (197 HP) has 111 more horse power than 1986 BMW 316. (86 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 515 kg more than 1986 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 BMW 316 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 1986 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Buick LaCrosse (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 316 | 2004 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 316 | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 197 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
