1971 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Cadillac BLS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac BLS is newer by 38 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac BLS (252 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 255 kg more than 1971 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Cadillac BLS, 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 Cadillac BLS (365 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2009 Cadillac BLS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 3 | BLS |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 74.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2680 mm |
