2001 BMW M3 vs. 1978 Buick Century
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1978 Buick Century. (110 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1978 Buick Century. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2001 BMW M3 (502 Nm) has 285 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Buick Century. (217 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Buick Century.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 1978 Buick Century | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | M3 | Century |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3788 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 502 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2760 mm |
