2009 Cadillac DTS vs. 1972 Ford Fairlane

To start off, 2009 Cadillac DTS is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac DTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac DTS (292 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1972 Ford Fairlane. (153 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac DTS weights approximately 185 kg more than 1972 Ford Fairlane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1972 Ford Fairlane 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 1972 Ford Fairlane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac DTS, 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 DTS (391 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Ford Fairlane. (326 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac DTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Ford Fairlane.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Cadillac DTS 1972 Ford Fairlane
Make Cadillac Ford
Model DTS Fairlane
Year Released 2009 1972
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4565 cc 4097 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 292 HP 153 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 391 Nm 326 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 1600 RPM
Engine Bore Size 93 mm 93.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84 mm 99.3 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1635 kg 1450 kg
Vehicle Length 5280 mm 5060 mm
Vehicle Width 1910 mm 1910 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2940 mm 2950 mm