2003 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Cadillac BLS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac BLS is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac BLS (252 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2003 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 193 kg more than 2003 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac BLS, 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 BLS (365 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 2009 Cadillac BLS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | M3 | BLS |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 74.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 58 L |
