2009 Cadillac BLS vs. 1997 Caterham C21
To start off, 2009 Cadillac BLS is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 2,792 cc, 2009 Cadillac BLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac BLS (247 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 910 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Caterham C21 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 1997 Caterham C21. 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 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2009 Cadillac BLS has automatic transmission and 1997 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 1997 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Cadillac BLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac BLS | 1997 Caterham C21 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Caterham |
| Model | BLS | C21 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 1587 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2260 mm |
