1971 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Cadillac STS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac STS 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 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac STS (321 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac STS weights approximately 440 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 2009 Cadillac STS is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac STS 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 Cadillac STS (427 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2009 Cadillac STS 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 STS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2009 Cadillac STS | |
Make | BMW | Cadillac |
Model | 3 | STS |
Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 4565 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 321 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 254 Nm | 427 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 93 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 10.5:1 |
Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 6.2 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2960 mm |