1983 BMW 316 vs. 2009 Cadillac BLS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac BLS is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,998 cc, 2009 Cadillac BLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac BLS (176 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1983 BMW 316. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 576 kg more than 1983 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 BMW 316 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 1983 BMW 316. 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 (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 316. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 316 | 2009 Cadillac BLS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 316 | BLS |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1765 cc | 1998 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1566 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 58 L |
