1988 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2012 Cadillac CTS is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Cadillac CTS (270 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. (165 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 228 kg more than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2012 Cadillac CTS (302 Nm @ 5700 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2012 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. 2012 Cadillac CTS has automatic transmission and 1988 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Cadillac CTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Cadillac CTS | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Cadillac |
Model | S | CTS |
Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2599 cc | 3000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 165 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 228 Nm | 302 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1748 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4859 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1842 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1473 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2880 mm |