1983 BMW 525 vs. 2009 Cadillac DTS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac DTS is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 525 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 153 more horse power than 1983 BMW 525. (123 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac DTS weights approximately 135 kg more than 1983 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 BMW 525 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 525. 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 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 525. (240 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac DTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 525 | 2009 Cadillac DTS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 525 | DTS |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2691 cc | 4565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2940 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 68 L |
