2009 Cadillac DTS vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Cadillac DTS is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac DTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac DTS (276 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 95 kg more than 2009 Cadillac DTS.
Because 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac DTS, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 DTS (400 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (378 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac DTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac DTS | 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DTS | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 4520 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 378 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2870 mm |
