1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2013 Cadillac ATS
To start off, 2013 Cadillac ATS is newer by 15 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Cadillac ATS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Cadillac ATS (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Cadillac ATS 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 240 kg more than 2013 Cadillac ATS.
Because 2013 Cadillac ATS is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Cadillac ATS will offer significantly more control. 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, 2013 Cadillac ATS (373 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Cadillac ATS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2013 Cadillac ATS has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Cadillac ATS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2013 Cadillac ATS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Cadillac |
| Model | SL | ATS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2798 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 373 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 11.5 |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4643 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1806 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 61 L |
