1986 Buick Electra vs. 2012 BMW 328
To start off, 2012 BMW 328 is newer by 26 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, 2012 BMW 328 (230 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1986 Buick Electra. (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 328 should accelerate faster than 1986 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 328 weights approximately 255 kg more than 1986 Buick Electra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW 328 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 2012 BMW 328. 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, both vehicles can yield 271 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1986 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 2012 BMW 328 has manual transmission. 2012 BMW 328 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 | 2012 BMW 328 | |
| Make | Buick | BMW |
| Model | Electra | 328 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1384 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2810 mm |
