1971 BMW 3 vs. 1991 Cadillac DeVille
To start off, 1991 Cadillac DeVille is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 4,894 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Cadillac DeVille is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1991 Cadillac DeVille. (197 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1991 Cadillac DeVille. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Cadillac DeVille weights approximately 230 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
Because 1971 BMW 3 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 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Cadillac DeVille, 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, 1991 Cadillac DeVille (373 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1991 Cadillac DeVille will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 1991 Cadillac DeVille has automatic transmission and 1971 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1971 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1991 Cadillac DeVille will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1991 Cadillac DeVille | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 3 | DeVille |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 4894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 373 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2820 mm |
