2004 BMW 318 vs. 2009 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2009 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 318 would be higher. At 5,325 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Buick LaCrosse (300 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 383 kg more than 2004 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Buick LaCrosse, 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, 2009 Buick LaCrosse (438 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318. 2009 Buick LaCrosse has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 2009 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 318 | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 5325 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 438 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1858 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.6 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 64 L |
