2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2012 Cadillac CTS is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Cadillac CTS (318 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (160 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 286 kg more than 2012 Cadillac CTS.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Cadillac CTS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 2012 Cadillac CTS (372 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 2012 Cadillac CTS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Cadillac |
| Model | C | CTS |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2685 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 318 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 372 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2064 kg | 1778 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4877 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1842 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 68 L |
