2009 Cadillac BLS vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2009 Cadillac BLS is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,972 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac BLS (247 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. (242 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 20 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 (401 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Cadillac BLS. (350 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Cadillac BLS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac BLS | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | BLS | 500 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 4972 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 90 L |
