1997 BMW 316 vs. 2009 Cadillac BLS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac BLS is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac BLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac BLS (252 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1997 BMW 316. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 325 kg more than 1997 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW 316 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 1997 BMW 316. 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 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 316 | 2009 Cadillac BLS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 316 | BLS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 74.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 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 | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 58 L |
