2004 Cadillac Escalade vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Cadillac Escalade is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Cadillac Escalade is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Cadillac Escalade (346 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. (317 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Cadillac Escalade should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Cadillac Escalade weights approximately 851 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Cadillac Escalade is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Cadillac Escalade 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, 2004 Cadillac Escalade (515 Nm) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. (471 Nm). This means 2004 Cadillac Escalade will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Cadillac Escalade | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escalade | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5965 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 346 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 515 Nm | 471 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 102 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2691 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5630 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3310 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 80 L |
