1988 BMW M3 vs. 1986 Buick Electra
To start off, 1988 BMW M3 is newer by 2 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, 1988 BMW M3 (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1986 Buick Electra. (138 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Buick Electra weights approximately 280 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 1988 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 1988 BMW M3. 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, 1986 Buick Electra (271 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 1986 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3. 1986 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW M3 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:
1988 BMW M3 | 1986 Buick Electra | |
Make | BMW | Buick |
Model | M3 | Electra |
Year Released | 1988 | 1986 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2303 cc | 3791 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 221 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 271 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1480 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2820 mm |