1986 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Cadillac BLS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac BLS is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,302 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW M3 (197 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2009 Cadillac BLS. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Cadillac BLS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 465 kg more than 1986 BMW M3.
Because 1986 BMW M3 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 1986 BMW M3. 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 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW M3. (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW M3 | 2009 Cadillac BLS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | M3 | BLS |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 9.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2680 mm |
