2008 Cadillac STS vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Cadillac STS 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 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 302 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (167 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 105 kg more than 2008 Cadillac STS.
Because 2008 Cadillac STS is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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 350 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 2008 Cadillac STS has automatic transmission and 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK has manual transmission. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | STS | CLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4376 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 469 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 595 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 62 L |
