1997 BMW S3 vs. 1981 Cadillac Eldorado
To start off, 1997 BMW S3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Cadillac Eldorado. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Cadillac Eldorado would be higher. At 6,030 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Cadillac Eldorado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1981 Cadillac Eldorado. (139 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Cadillac Eldorado. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Cadillac Eldorado weights approximately 262 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
Because 1997 BMW S3 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 S3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Cadillac Eldorado, 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, 1981 Cadillac Eldorado (358 Nm) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 1981 Cadillac Eldorado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 1981 Cadillac Eldorado | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | S3 | Eldorado |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 6030 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 358 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2900 mm |
