2008 BMW X3 vs. 1978 Buick Century
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 30 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 3,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1978 Buick Century. (110 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 388 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, 2008 BMW X3 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Buick Century. (217 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Buick Century.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1978 Buick Century | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | X3 | Century |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 3788 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1818 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2760 mm |
