1997 BMW M3 vs. 2003 Buick Park Avenue
To start off, 2003 Buick Park Avenue is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Buick Park Avenue is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2003 Buick Park Avenue. (205 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Buick Park Avenue. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Buick Park Avenue weights approximately 382 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, 2003 Buick Park Avenue, 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, 2003 Buick Park Avenue (312 Nm) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2003 Buick Park Avenue will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2003 Buick Park Avenue 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. 2003 Buick Park Avenue will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2003 Buick Park Avenue | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | M3 | Park Avenue |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| 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 | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 312 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1682 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2900 mm |
