2009 Cadillac BLS vs. 1974 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2009 Cadillac BLS is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac BLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac BLS (179 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1974 Opel Rekord. (66 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 1974 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 535 kg more than 1974 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Opel Rekord 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 1974 Opel Rekord. 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 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Opel Rekord. (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac BLS | 1974 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Cadillac | Opel |
| Model | BLS | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 179 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1850 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2680 mm |
