1998 BMW 317 vs. 2010 Cadillac STS
To start off, 2010 Cadillac STS is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 317 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Cadillac STS (302 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Cadillac STS weights approximately 447 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.
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, 2010 Cadillac STS (368 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2010 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 317. 2010 Cadillac STS 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. 2010 Cadillac STS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 2010 Cadillac STS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 317 | STS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 368 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1802 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4996 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1844 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1463 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2957 mm |
