1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Cadillac BLS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac BLS is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2009 Cadillac BLS. (179 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Cadillac BLS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 230 kg more than 2009 Cadillac BLS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2009 Cadillac BLS | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Cadillac |
Model | SL | BLS |
Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3197 cc | 1910 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 224 HP | 179 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 315 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1850 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.5:1 |
Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 9.1 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1600 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4720 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1550 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2680 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 58 L |