2009 Cadillac BLS vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Cadillac BLS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Cadillac BLS would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac BLS (252 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL. (228 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL. (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac BLS | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | BLS | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 80 L |
