1971 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac CTS 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 3,599 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac CTS (304 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 410 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 CTS (370 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2009 Cadillac CTS 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. 2009 Cadillac CTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2009 Cadillac CTS | |
Make | BMW | Cadillac |
Model | 3 | CTS |
Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3599 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 180 HP | 304 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 255 Nm | 370 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1790 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4870 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2890 mm |