1996 BMW M3 vs. 1969 Cadillac Calais
To start off, 1996 BMW M3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Cadillac Calais. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Cadillac Calais would be higher. At 7,734 cc (8 cylinders), 1969 Cadillac Calais is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1969 Cadillac Calais. (228 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1969 Cadillac Calais. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Cadillac Calais weights approximately 487 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Cadillac Calais, 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, 1969 Cadillac Calais (710 Nm) has 405 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 1969 Cadillac Calais will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 1969 Cadillac Calais | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | M3 | Calais |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 7734 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 710 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.2 mm | 109.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 103.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 2075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3300 mm |
