1983 BMW 320 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 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac BLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac BLS (252 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1983 BMW 320. (120 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 585 kg more than 1983 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 BMW 320 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 320. 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 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 320. (171 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 320 | 2009 Cadillac BLS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 320 | BLS |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 74.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 58 L |
