2009 BMW X3 vs. 1980 Buick Century
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,213 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X3 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1980 Buick Century. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X3 weights approximately 226 kg more than 1980 Buick Century. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Buick Century. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1980 Buick Century (217 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW X3. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1980 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 1980 Buick Century | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | X3 | Century |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3213 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1656 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2760 mm |
