1996 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2012 Cadillac CTS is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2012 Cadillac CTS. (270 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Cadillac CTS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 160 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
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, 1996 BMW M3 (305 Nm) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Cadillac CTS. (302 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Cadillac CTS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2012 Cadillac CTS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | M3 | CTS |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 302 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1748 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4859 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1842 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2880 mm |
