2009 Cadillac BLS vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 2009 Cadillac BLS is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac BLS (247 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (219 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2009 Cadillac BLS.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. 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 (350 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac BLS | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | BLS | 420 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 4196 cc |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 219 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 329 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2460 mm |
