1986 Buick Electra vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Buick Electra would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 120 (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1986 Buick Electra. (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1986 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Buick Electra weights approximately 40 kg more than 2011 BMW 120.
Because 2011 BMW 120 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 2011 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2011 BMW 120 (351 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Buick Electra. (271 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Buick Electra. 1986 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 2011 BMW 120 has manual transmission. 2011 BMW 120 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Buick Electra | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Buick | BMW |
| Model | Electra | 120 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2670 mm |
