1968 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2011 Cadillac CTS is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Cadillac CTS (270 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 384 kg more than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 Cadillac CTS (302 Nm @ 5700 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. (216 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Cadillac CTS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Cadillac |
| Model | SL | CTS |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 302 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1744 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4859 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1842 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 68 L |
