2009 Cadillac BLS vs. 1959 Ford 17M

To start off, 2009 Cadillac BLS is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Ford 17M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Ford 17M would be higher. At 1,998 cc, 2009 Cadillac BLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac BLS (176 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1959 Ford 17M. (59 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 1959 Ford 17M. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 451 kg more than 1959 Ford 17M. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1959 Ford 17M 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 1959 Ford 17M. 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 (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Ford 17M. (120 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Ford 17M. 2009 Cadillac BLS has automatic transmission and 1959 Ford 17M has manual transmission. 1959 Ford 17M will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Cadillac BLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Cadillac BLS 1959 Ford 17M
Make Cadillac Ford
Model BLS 17M
Year Released 2009 1959
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1998 cc 1697 cc
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 176 HP 59 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4250 RPM
Torque 265 Nm 120 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 2200 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1566 kg 1115 kg
Vehicle Length 4690 mm 4380 mm
Vehicle Width 1460 mm 1680 mm
Vehicle Height 1770 mm 1510 mm
Wheelbase Size 2680 mm 2610 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 58 L 55 L