2004 Buick LaCrosse vs. 1981 BMW M1
To start off, 2004 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,564 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2004 Buick LaCrosse. (238 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2004 Buick LaCrosse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 315 kg more than 1981 BMW M1.
Because 1981 BMW M1 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 1981 BMW M1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1981 BMW M1 (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Buick LaCrosse. (311 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1981 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Buick LaCrosse. 2004 Buick LaCrosse has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW M1 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW M1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Buick LaCrosse | 1981 BMW M1 | |
| Make | Buick | BMW |
| Model | LaCrosse | M1 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3564 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2570 mm |
