2009 Cadillac BLS vs. 1988 Holden Commodore

To start off, 2009 Cadillac BLS is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac BLS (176 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1988 Holden Commodore. (168 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 1988 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 250 kg more than 1988 Holden Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1988 Holden Commodore 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 1988 Holden Commodore. 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, 1988 Holden Commodore (292 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Cadillac BLS. (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1988 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Cadillac BLS. 1988 Holden Commodore 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. 1988 Holden Commodore will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Cadillac BLS 1988 Holden Commodore
Make Cadillac Holden
Model BLS Commodore
Year Released 2009 1988
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1997 cc 3791 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 176 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 265 Nm 292 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 3200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1560 kg 1310 kg
Vehicle Length 4690 mm 4860 mm
Vehicle Width 1460 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1770 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2680 mm 2740 mm