2009 BMW 318 vs. 1985 Buick Electra

To start off, 2009 BMW 318 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Buick Electra would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 318 (141 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1985 Buick Electra. (109 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1985 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 318 weights approximately 105 kg more than 1985 Buick Electra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 BMW 318 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 2009 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2009 BMW 318 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Buick Electra. (196 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Buick Electra. 1985 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 318 1985 Buick Electra
Make BMW Buick
Model 318 Electra
Year Released 2009 1985
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 2966 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 141 HP 109 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 196 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 2400 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1505 kg 1400 kg
Vehicle Length 4530 mm 4990 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1840 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2820 mm