2006 Cadillac DTS vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Cadillac DTS is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,572 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Cadillac DTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Cadillac DTS (275 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (156 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Cadillac DTS, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2006 Cadillac DTS (396 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Cadillac DTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Cadillac DTS | 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DTS | S |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4572 cc | 2744 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 396 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 85 L |
