1988 BMW 535 vs. 2008 Cadillac CTS

To start off, 2008 Cadillac CTS is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac CTS (215 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1988 BMW 535. (211 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 160 kg more than 1988 BMW 535. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1988 BMW 535 (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Cadillac CTS. (300 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Cadillac CTS. 1988 BMW 535 has automatic transmission and 2008 Cadillac CTS has manual transmission. 2008 Cadillac CTS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 BMW 535 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1988 BMW 535 2008 Cadillac CTS
Make BMW Cadillac
Model 535 CTS
Year Released 1988 2008
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3430 cc 3175 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 211 HP 215 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 305 Nm 300 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3400 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 10.0:1
Acceleration 0-100mph 9.3 seconds 7.4 seconds
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1630 kg 1790 kg
Vehicle Length 4730 mm 4830 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2890 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 68 L