1972 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Cadillac BLS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac BLS is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,003 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac BLS (252 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 365 kg more than 1972 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 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 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2009 Cadillac BLS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 3 | BLS |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3003 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 74.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 58 L |
