1998 BMW 317 vs. 2006 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2006 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 317 would be higher. At 3,786 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Buick LaCrosse (200 HP) has 111 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 595 kg more than 1998 BMW 317. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 317 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 1998 BMW 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Buick LaCrosse, 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, 2006 Buick LaCrosse (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 2006 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 317 | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 3786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 312 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2810 mm |
