2001 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2012 Cadillac CTS is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2012 Cadillac CTS. (270 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Cadillac CTS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 153 kg more than 2001 BMW M3.
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, 2001 BMW M3 (502 Nm) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Cadillac CTS. (302 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Cadillac CTS. 2001 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 2012 Cadillac CTS has manual transmission. 2012 Cadillac CTS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 2012 Cadillac CTS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | M3 | CTS |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 502 Nm | 302 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1748 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4859 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1842 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |
