2009 Cadillac BLS vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2009 Cadillac BLS is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen W12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen W12 would be higher. At 5,584 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 2009 Cadillac BLS. (247 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2009 Cadillac BLS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 408 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Because 1997 Volkswagen W12 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 Volkswagen W12. 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, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Cadillac BLS. (350 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Cadillac BLS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac BLS | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
| Model | BLS | W12 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 5584 cc |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1152 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1010 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 55 L |
