1997 Buick Century vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2001 BMW Z3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1997 Buick Century. (165 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Century weights approximately 134 kg more than 2001 BMW Z3.
Because 2001 BMW Z3 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 2001 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Buick Century, 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, 1997 Buick Century (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW Z3. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Buick Century | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
Make | Buick | BMW |
Model | Century | Z3 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2171 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 165 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 251 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.8:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1386 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2450 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 51 L |