1987 Buick Electra vs. 2009 BMW Z4
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Buick Electra would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (261 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1987 Buick Electra. (139 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1987 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Buick Electra weights approximately 85 kg more than 2009 BMW Z4.
Because 2009 BMW Z4 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 2009 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 2009 BMW Z4 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Buick Electra. (271 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Buick Electra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Buick Electra | 2009 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Buick | BMW |
| Model | Electra | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2500 mm |
