2009 Cadillac CTS vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
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 SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,599 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac CTS (263 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (224 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 195 kg more than 2009 Cadillac CTS.
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, 2009 Cadillac CTS (343 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2009 Cadillac CTS has manual transmission. 2009 Cadillac CTS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Cadillac CTS | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Cadillac | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | CTS | SL |
Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3599 cc | 3197 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 263 HP | 224 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 343 Nm | 315 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.1:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 80 L |