1996 BMW 530 vs. 2009 Cadillac BLS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac BLS is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac BLS (252 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1996 BMW 530. (193 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 530. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 120 kg more than 1996 BMW 530. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 530 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 1996 BMW 530. 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 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 530. (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 530.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 530 | 2009 Cadillac BLS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 530 | BLS |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 74.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 58 L |
