1999 BMW 318 vs. 1997 Buick LeSabre
To start off, 1999 BMW 318 is newer by 2 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 62 more horse power than 1999 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Buick LeSabre should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 92 kg more than 1999 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 BMW 318. 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 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 318 | 1997 Buick LeSabre | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 318 | LeSabre |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 312 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1398 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |
