1972 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Cadillac DTS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac DTS 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 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac DTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac DTS (276 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac DTS weights approximately 261 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 DTS, 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 DTS (400 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac DTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3. 2009 Cadillac DTS has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Cadillac DTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 3 | 2009 Cadillac DTS | |
Make | BMW | Cadillac |
Model | 3 | DTS |
Year Released | 1972 | 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 | 201 HP | 276 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1635 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 5280 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1910 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2940 mm |