2002 Cadillac Catera vs. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2002 Cadillac Catera is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Cadillac Catera (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. (185 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Cadillac Catera should accelerate faster than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Cadillac Catera weights approximately 175 kg more than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Cadillac Catera. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 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, both vehicles can yield 260 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2002 Cadillac Catera has automatic transmission and 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Cadillac Catera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Cadillac Catera | 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Catera | 300 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2961 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 207 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.9 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 72 L |
