2008 BMW 523 vs. 1981 Buick Century
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,213 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 523 (175 HP) has 71 more horse power than 1981 Buick Century. (104 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1981 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Buick Century weights approximately 150 kg more than 2008 BMW 523.
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, 2008 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Buick Century. (217 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Buick Century.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 1981 Buick Century | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 523 | Century |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3213 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 104 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2760 mm |
