1998 BMW 320 vs. 1990 Buick Electra

To start off, 1998 BMW 320 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Buick Electra would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Buick Electra (163 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Buick Electra should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Buick Electra weights approximately 265 kg more than 1998 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1998 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Buick Electra, 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, 1990 Buick Electra (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1990 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320. 1990 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1990 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 320 1990 Buick Electra
Make BMW Buick
Model 320 Electra
Year Released 1998 1990
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1990 cc 3791 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 150 HP 163 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 190 Nm 285 Nm
Torque RPM 4200 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 96.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 66 mm 86.4 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1310 kg 1575 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 4990 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1840 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2820 mm