1997 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2008 Cadillac CTS is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2008 Cadillac CTS. (215 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Cadillac CTS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 490 kg more than 1997 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, 2008 Cadillac CTS (300 Nm) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2008 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2008 Cadillac CTS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | M3 | CTS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 233 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2890 mm |
