1987 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Buick Regal
To start off, 2012 Buick Regal is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Buick Regal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Buick Regal (270 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1987 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick Regal should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Buick Regal weights approximately 717 kg more than 1987 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 BMW 318 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 1987 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Buick Regal (400 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW 318. (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Buick Regal will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW 318 | 2012 Buick Regal | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 318 | Regal |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1683 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4831 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2738 mm |
