2002 BMW M3 vs. 1978 Cadillac Eldorado
To start off, 2002 BMW M3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Cadillac Eldorado. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Cadillac Eldorado would be higher. At 6,964 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Cadillac Eldorado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1978 Cadillac Eldorado. (171 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Cadillac Eldorado. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Cadillac Eldorado weights approximately 635 kg more than 2002 BMW M3.
Because 2002 BMW M3 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 2002 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1978 Cadillac Eldorado (433 Nm) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW M3. (355 Nm). This means 1978 Cadillac Eldorado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW M3 | 1978 Cadillac Eldorado | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | M3 | Eldorado |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 6964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 433 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 2230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3210 mm |
