1997 BMW M3 vs. 2010 Cadillac BLS
To start off, 2010 Cadillac BLS is newer by 13 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 61 more horse power than 2010 Cadillac BLS. (179 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2010 Cadillac BLS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 300 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, 2010 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, 2010 Cadillac BLS (400 Nm) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2010 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2010 Cadillac BLS 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. 2010 Cadillac BLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2010 Cadillac BLS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | M3 | BLS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 179 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
