1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2010 Cadillac BLS
To start off, 2010 Cadillac BLS is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Cadillac BLS (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 15 kg more than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Ford Thunderbird 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 1997 Ford Thunderbird. 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 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2010 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Thunderbird | 2010 Cadillac BLS | |
| Make | Ford | Cadillac |
| Model | Thunderbird | BLS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 58 L |
