1998 BMW 316 vs. 1981 Cadillac Eldorado

To start off, 1998 BMW 316 is newer by 17 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, 1981 Cadillac Eldorado (139 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (103 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Cadillac Eldorado should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Cadillac Eldorado weights approximately 270 kg more than 1998 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1998 BMW 316 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 1998 BMW 316. 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 @ 1400 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1981 Cadillac Eldorado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 316 1981 Cadillac Eldorado
Make BMW Cadillac
Model 316 Eldorado
Year Released 1998 1981
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1895 cc 6030 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 103 HP 139 HP
Engine RPM 5300 RPM 3800 RPM
Torque 165 Nm 358 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 1400 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1360 kg 1630 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 5190 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2900 mm