1998 BMW 320 vs. 2009 Cadillac DTS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac DTS is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac DTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac DTS (276 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (150 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac DTS weights approximately 170 kg more than 1998 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac DTS, 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, 2009 Cadillac DTS (400 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac DTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320. 2009 Cadillac DTS has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Cadillac DTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 2009 Cadillac DTS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 320 | DTS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 4565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2940 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |
