2009 Cadillac BLS vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Cadillac BLS is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C 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 56 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 150 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. 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 (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac BLS | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | BLS | C |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 85.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 62 L |
