1997 Volkswagen Golf 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 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Cadillac BLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Cadillac BLS (179 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 440 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (400 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 274 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2010 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2010 Cadillac BLS | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Cadillac |
| Model | Golf | BLS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 179 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1850 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2680 mm |
