1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2010 Cadillac BLS
To start off, 2010 Cadillac BLS is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Cadillac BLS (176 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 44 kg more than 2010 Cadillac BLS.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Cadillac BLS (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 2010 Cadillac BLS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Cadillac |
| Model | S | BLS |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1566 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 58 L |
