1988 Buick Century vs. 2012 BMW X3
To start off, 2012 BMW X3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X3 (256 HP) has 106 more horse power than 1988 Buick Century. (150 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Buick Century.
Because 2012 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Buick Century. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 BMW X3 (560 Nm) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Buick Century. (270 Nm). This means 2012 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Buick Century.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Buick Century | 2012 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Buick | BMW |
| Model | Century | X3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3800 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 256 HP |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4803 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1881 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1364 mm | 1675 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2662 mm | 2810 mm |
