1972 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Cadillac SRX
To start off, 2012 Cadillac SRX is newer by 40 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Cadillac SRX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Cadillac SRX (308 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Cadillac SRX should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Cadillac SRX weights approximately 670 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, 2012 Cadillac SRX, 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, 2012 Cadillac SRX (359 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2012 Cadillac SRX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3. 2012 Cadillac SRX 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. 2012 Cadillac SRX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2012 Cadillac SRX | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 3 | SRX |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3003 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 308 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4834 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1669 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2807 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 79 L |
