1986 BMW M3 vs. 1998 Buick Regal
To start off, 1998 Buick Regal is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Buick Regal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Buick Regal (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1986 BMW M3. (197 HP @ 6750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Buick Regal should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Buick Regal weights approximately 324 kg more than 1986 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Buick Regal, 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, 1998 Buick Regal (312 Nm) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW M3. (240 Nm). This means 1998 Buick Regal will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW M3. 1998 Buick Regal has automatic transmission and 1986 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1986 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Buick Regal will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW M3 | 1998 Buick Regal | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | M3 | Regal |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 312 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1494 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2780 mm |
