1997 BMW M3 vs. 1988 Buick Electra
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Buick Electra would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1988 Buick Electra. (163 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Buick Electra weights approximately 275 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
Because 1997 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 1997 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Buick Electra, 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, 1988 Buick Electra (285 Nm) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 1988 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 1988 Buick Electra 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. 1988 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW M3 | 1988 Buick Electra | |
Make | BMW | Buick |
Model | M3 | Electra |
Year Released | 1997 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3791 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 285 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1575 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2820 mm |