2005 BMW M3 vs. 1978 Buick Century
To start off, 2005 BMW M3 is newer by 27 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 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW M3 (320 HP) has 180 more horse power than 1978 Buick Century. (140 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW M3 weights approximately 260 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, 2005 BMW M3 (337 Nm) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Buick Century. (250 Nm). This means 2005 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Buick Century.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW M3 | 1978 Buick Century | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | M3 | Century |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3244 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 337 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 94.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2760 mm |
