1981 BMW 528 vs. 2008 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2008 Cadillac CTS is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 528. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 528 would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac CTS (210 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1981 BMW 528. (181 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 528. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 260 kg more than 1981 BMW 528. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Cadillac CTS is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 528. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac CTS 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, 2008 Cadillac CTS (263 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 528. (240 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 528.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 528 | 2008 Cadillac CTS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 528 | CTS |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2788 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 263 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 74.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 68 L |
