2009 Cadillac BLS vs. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 2009 Cadillac BLS is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,839 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 (204 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2009 Cadillac BLS. (179 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 2009 Cadillac BLS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2009 Cadillac BLS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 Mercedes-Benz 380. 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 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. (315 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 Mercedes-Benz 380 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac BLS | 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | BLS | 380 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 3839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 179 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1850 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2860 mm |
