1997 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Buick Lucerne
To start off, 2009 Buick Lucerne is newer by 12 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 3,880 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Buick Lucerne is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2009 Buick Lucerne. (227 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Buick Lucerne. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Buick Lucerne weights approximately 317 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, 2009 Buick Lucerne, 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, 2009 Buick Lucerne (321 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2009 Buick Lucerne will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2009 Buick Lucerne 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. 2009 Buick Lucerne will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2009 Buick Lucerne | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | M3 | Lucerne |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3880 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1617 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2940 mm |
