2009 Cadillac BLS vs. 1981 GMC Suburban
To start off, 2009 Cadillac BLS is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 GMC Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 GMC Suburban would be higher. At 6,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac BLS (252 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1981 GMC Suburban. (129 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 760 kg more than 2009 Cadillac BLS.
Because 1981 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Cadillac BLS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 GMC Suburban will offer significantly more control. 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 (365 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 GMC Suburban. (326 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 GMC Suburban. 1981 GMC Suburban has automatic transmission and 2009 Cadillac BLS has manual transmission. 2009 Cadillac BLS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 GMC Suburban will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Cadillac BLS | 1981 GMC Suburban | |
Make | Cadillac | GMC |
Model | BLS | Suburban |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2792 cc | 6210 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 252 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 365 Nm | 326 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 2395 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 5480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1950 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1800 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 3300 mm |