1997 BMW M3 vs. 1971 Buick Centurion

To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Buick Centurion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Buick Centurion would be higher. At 7,468 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Buick Centurion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1971 Buick Centurion. (226 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1971 Buick Centurion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Buick Centurion weights approximately 770 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.

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, 1971 Buick Centurion (498 Nm) has 262 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 1971 Buick Centurion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 1971 Buick Centurion has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Buick Centurion will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1997 BMW M3 1971 Buick Centurion
Make BMW Buick
Model M3 Centurion
Year Released 1997 1971
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3201 cc 7468 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 240 HP 226 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 236 Nm 498 Nm
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1300 kg 2070 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 5650 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 2040 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 3160 mm


 

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