1988 Cadillac DeVille vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Cadillac DeVille. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Cadillac DeVille would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1988 Cadillac DeVille. (129 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Cadillac DeVille. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 308 kg more than 1988 Cadillac DeVille. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Cadillac DeVille, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Cadillac DeVille. (271 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Cadillac DeVille.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Cadillac DeVille | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DeVille | SL |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4086 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1848 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4960 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2570 mm |
