2008 Cadillac STS vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Cadillac STS is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,376 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac STS (469 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 279 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 330 kg more than 2008 Cadillac STS.
Because 2008 Cadillac STS is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac STS 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, 2008 Cadillac STS (595 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 325 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. 2008 Cadillac STS has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Cadillac STS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Cadillac STS | 1997 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | STS | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4376 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 469 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 595 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 70 L |
