2009 BMW X3 vs. 1988 Buick Electra
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 21 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, 2009 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1988 Buick Electra. (163 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Buick Electra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X3 weights approximately 261 kg more than 1988 Buick Electra. 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 1988 Buick Electra. 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, 2009 BMW X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Buick Electra. (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Buick Electra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 1988 Buick Electra | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | X3 | Electra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 96.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1836 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2820 mm |
