1997 BMW Z3 vs. 1980 Buick Century
To start off, 1997 BMW Z3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 229 more horse power than 1980 Buick Century. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Buick Century weights approximately 37 kg more than 1997 BMW Z3.
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 Z3 (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Buick Century. (218 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Buick Century.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW Z3 | 1980 Buick Century | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | Z3 | Century |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 3214 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 333 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2760 mm |
