1998 BMW 317 vs. 1989 Cadillac Seville
To start off, 1998 BMW 317 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Cadillac Seville. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Cadillac Seville would be higher. At 4,473 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 Cadillac Seville is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Cadillac Seville (153 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Cadillac Seville should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Cadillac Seville weights approximately 211 kg more than 1998 BMW 317. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 317 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 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Cadillac Seville, 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, 1989 Cadillac Seville (325 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1989 Cadillac Seville will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 317. 1989 Cadillac Seville has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 317 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 317 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Cadillac Seville will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 1989 Cadillac Seville | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 317 | Seville |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 4473 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1566 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2750 mm |
