1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2003 Cadillac CTS is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,563 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Cadillac CTS (252 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 135 kg more than 2003 Cadillac CTS.
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, 2003 Cadillac CTS (346 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Cadillac CTS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Cadillac |
| Model | SL | CTS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 3563 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 346 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 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 |
