1996 BMW M3 vs. 1988 Buick LeSabre
To start off, 1996 BMW M3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Buick LeSabre. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Buick LeSabre would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1988 Buick LeSabre. (148 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 20 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1996 BMW M3 (320 Nm) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Buick LeSabre. (271 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Buick LeSabre.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 1988 Buick LeSabre | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | M3 | LeSabre |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |
