2008 BMW Z4 vs. 2009 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2009 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW Z4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW Z4 would be higher. At 3,786 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Buick LaCrosse (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2008 BMW Z4. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster 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, 2009 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, both vehicles can yield 230 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2009 Buick LaCrosse 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. 2009 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 2009 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | Z4 | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
