1998 BMW 323 vs. 1997 Buick LeSabre
To start off, 1998 BMW 323 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Buick LeSabre. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Buick LeSabre would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Buick LeSabre (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Buick LeSabre should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 105 kg more than 1997 Buick LeSabre.
Because 1998 BMW 323 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 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Buick LeSabre, 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 LeSabre (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 1997 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323. 1997 Buick LeSabre has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Buick LeSabre will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 1997 Buick LeSabre | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 323 | LeSabre |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 312 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
