2009 Cadillac BLS vs. 1988 Lexus LS
To start off, 2009 Cadillac BLS is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lexus LS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lexus LS would be higher. At 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac BLS (252 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1988 Lexus LS. (242 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 1988 Lexus LS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lexus LS weights approximately 180 kg more than 2009 Cadillac BLS.
Because 1988 Lexus LS 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 Lexus LS. 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 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lexus LS. (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lexus LS. 1988 Lexus LS 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 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac BLS | 1988 Lexus LS | |
| Make | Cadillac | Lexus |
| Model | BLS | LS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 3969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4400 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 | 1635 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2820 mm |
