1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1978 Buick LeSabre
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick LeSabre. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick LeSabre would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1978 Buick LeSabre. (104 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1978 Buick LeSabre. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1978 Buick LeSabre (251 Nm) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 1978 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 1978 Buick LeSabre has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Buick LeSabre will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW Z3 | 1978 Buick LeSabre | |
Make | BMW | Buick |
Model | Z3 | LeSabre |
Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1897 cc | 3791 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 141 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 251 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1590 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5550 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1910 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2950 mm |