2008 Cadillac CTS vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Cadillac CTS is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac CTS (179 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (167 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 123 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Cadillac CTS. (233 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Cadillac CTS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Cadillac CTS | 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CTS | CLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 179 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.2 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.6 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1788 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 62 L |
