1978 Cadillac Eldorado vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Cadillac Eldorado. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Cadillac Eldorado would be higher. At 6,964 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Cadillac Eldorado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (494 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 323 more horse power than 1978 Cadillac Eldorado. (171 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1978 Cadillac Eldorado. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Cadillac Eldorado weights approximately 355 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Cadillac Eldorado, 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Cadillac Eldorado. (433 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Cadillac Eldorado.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Cadillac Eldorado | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Eldorado | SL |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6964 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 494 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 433 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.6 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 103.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2230 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5700 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3210 mm | 2570 mm |
