2009 Cadillac CTS vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Cadillac CTS is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2009 Cadillac CTS. (179 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Cadillac CTS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 98 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Cadillac CTS. (232 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Cadillac CTS.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Cadillac CTS | 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Cadillac | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | CTS | SL |
Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2597 cc | 2962 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 179 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 232 Nm | 267 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 88.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79.6 mm | 80.3 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1788 kg | 1690 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 80 L |