1997 BMW M3 vs. 2013 Cadillac ATS
To start off, 2013 Cadillac ATS is newer by 16 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, 2013 Cadillac ATS (268 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Cadillac ATS should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Cadillac ATS weights approximately 230 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, 2013 Cadillac ATS (353 Nm) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2013 Cadillac ATS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2013 Cadillac ATS 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. 2013 Cadillac ATS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2013 Cadillac ATS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | M3 | ATS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.5 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4643 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1806 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2776 mm |
