1991 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2003 Cadillac CTS is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,961 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2003 Cadillac CTS. (179 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Cadillac CTS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 70 kg more than 2003 Cadillac CTS. 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL (272 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Cadillac CTS. (245 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Cadillac CTS. 2003 Cadillac CTS has automatic transmission and 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Cadillac CTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Cadillac CTS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Cadillac |
| Model | SL | CTS |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2961 cc | 2597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 179 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.5 mm | 83.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 64 L |
