2008 BMW Z4 vs. 1988 Buick Electra
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Buick Electra would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1988 Buick Electra. (163 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1988 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Buick Electra weights approximately 90 kg more than 2008 BMW Z4.
Because 2008 BMW Z4 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 2008 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Buick Electra, 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, 2008 BMW Z4 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Buick Electra. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Buick Electra. 1988 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW Z4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 1988 Buick Electra | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | Z4 | Electra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 96.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2820 mm |
