2004 BMW 318 vs. 1986 Buick LeSabre
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Buick LeSabre. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Buick LeSabre would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 25 kg more than 2004 BMW 318.
Because 2004 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 2004 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1986 Buick LeSabre (271 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1986 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 1986 Buick LeSabre | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 318 | LeSabre |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |
