2009 Cadillac CTS vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Cadillac CTS is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac CTS (304 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 543 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Cadillac CTS is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac CTS 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, 2009 Cadillac CTS (370 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 2009 Cadillac CTS has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Cadillac CTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac CTS | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CTS | A |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 304 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1638 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2430 mm |
