1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1954 Buick 40
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Buick 40 would be higher. At 4,328 cc (8 cylinders), 1954 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1954 Buick 40. (148 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1954 Buick 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Buick 40 weights approximately 420 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1954 Buick 40 (325 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 1954 Buick 40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1954 Buick 40 | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | Z3 | 40 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1954 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 4328 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1675 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3110 mm |
