1997 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Cadillac Escalade
To start off, 2009 Cadillac Escalade is newer by 12 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 6,162 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac Escalade is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac Escalade (404 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac Escalade should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac Escalade weights approximately 335 kg more than 1997 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Cadillac Escalade (565 Nm) has 329 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2009 Cadillac Escalade will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2009 Cadillac Escalade 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. 2009 Cadillac Escalade will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2009 Cadillac Escalade | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | M3 | Escalade |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 6162 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 404 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 565 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1920 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3310 mm |
