1997 BMW M3 vs. 1986 Cadillac Allante

To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Cadillac Allante. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Cadillac Allante would be higher. At 4,087 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Cadillac Allante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1986 Cadillac Allante. (169 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Cadillac Allante. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Cadillac Allante weights approximately 290 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.

Because 1997 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 1997 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Cadillac Allante, 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, 1986 Cadillac Allante (324 Nm) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 1986 Cadillac Allante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 1986 Cadillac Allante has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Cadillac Allante will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1997 BMW M3 1986 Cadillac Allante
Make BMW Cadillac
Model M3 Allante
Year Released 1997 1986
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3201 cc 4087 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 240 HP 169 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 4300 RPM
Torque 236 Nm 324 Nm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 8.5:1
Top Speed 220 km/hour 192 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 2 seats
Vehicle Weight 1300 kg 1590 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 4540 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1870 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2710 mm 2530 mm