1996 BMW 520 vs. 2002 Buick LeSabre
To start off, 2002 Buick LeSabre is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 520 would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Buick LeSabre (206 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1996 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Buick LeSabre should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 121 kg more than 1996 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 520 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 1996 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Buick LeSabre, 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, 2002 Buick LeSabre (311 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2002 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 520. 2002 Buick LeSabre has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Buick LeSabre will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 520 | 2002 Buick LeSabre | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 520 | LeSabre |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 206 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1496 kg | 1617 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 68 L |
