2009 Cadillac BLS vs. 1982 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2009 Cadillac BLS is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac BLS (252 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 187 kg more than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Ford Thunderbird 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 1982 Ford Thunderbird. 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 (365 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. (252 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. 1982 Ford Thunderbird 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. 1982 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac BLS | 1982 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Cadillac | Ford |
| Model | BLS | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 96.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.8 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1448 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 80 L |
