1975 BMW 520 vs. 2009 Cadillac BLS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac BLS is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac BLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac BLS (252 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1975 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 1975 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 340 kg more than 1975 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 BMW 520 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 1975 BMW 520. 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 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 BMW 520. (172 Nm @ 4350 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 BMW 520 | 2009 Cadillac BLS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 520 | BLS |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4350 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 58 L |
