1974 BMW 2.8 vs. 2009 Cadillac BLS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac BLS is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 2.8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 2.8 would be higher. At 3,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 2.8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 2.8 (187 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2009 Cadillac BLS. (179 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 2.8 should accelerate faster than 2009 Cadillac BLS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 60 kg more than 1974 BMW 2.8.
Because 1974 BMW 2.8 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 1974 BMW 2.8. 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 (400 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 2.8. (295 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 2.8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 2.8 | 2009 Cadillac BLS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 2.8 | BLS |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3293 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 179 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1850 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2680 mm |
