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 3,599 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac STS (302 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 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 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.
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 STS (369 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 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 | 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 | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 255 Nm | 369 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
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 | 1635 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2960 mm |