1997 BMW M3 vs. 1978 Buick Century
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,213 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1978 Buick Century. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Buick Century weights approximately 130 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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Buick Century. (217 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Buick Century.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW M3 | 1978 Buick Century | |
Make | BMW | Buick |
Model | M3 | Century |
Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3213 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 217 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1430 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2760 mm |