1988 Buick Electra vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Buick Electra would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 120 (168 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1988 Buick Electra. (163 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1988 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Buick Electra weights approximately 160 kg more than 2011 BMW 120.
Because 2011 BMW 120 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 2011 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1988 Buick Electra (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW 120. (210 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1988 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW 120. 1988 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 2011 BMW 120 has manual transmission. 2011 BMW 120 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Buick Electra | 2011 BMW 120 | |
Make | Buick | BMW |
Model | Electra | 120 |
Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6700 RPM |
Torque | 285 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.6 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 90 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1415 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4370 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1420 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1760 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2670 mm |