1998 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Buick LaCrosse

To start off, 2012 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (182 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 465 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1998 BMW 318 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 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (233 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2012 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 2012 Buick LaCrosse has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 318 2012 Buick LaCrosse
Make BMW Buick
Model 318 LaCrosse
Year Released 1998 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1895 cc 2400 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 140 HP 182 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6700 RPM
Torque 180 Nm 233 Nm
Torque RPM 4300 RPM 4900 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline / Electric Hybrid
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1275 kg 1740 kg
Vehicle Length 4220 mm 5001 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1857 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1504 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2837 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 59 L


 

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