1997 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Cadillac CTS-V
To start off, 2011 Cadillac CTS-V is newer by 14 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Cadillac CTS-V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Cadillac CTS-V (556 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 316 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Cadillac CTS-V should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Cadillac CTS-V weights approximately 615 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, 2011 Cadillac CTS-V (746 Nm) has 510 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2011 Cadillac CTS-V will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2011 Cadillac CTS-V | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | M3 | CTS-V |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 556 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 746 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4859 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1842 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2880 mm |
