2009 Cadillac BLS vs. 1988 Volvo 440
To start off, 2009 Cadillac BLS is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 440. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 440 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac BLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac BLS (176 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 440. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 530 kg more than 1988 Volvo 440. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 440. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac BLS | 1988 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volvo |
| Model | BLS | 440 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 15.7 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 80 L |
