2009 Cadillac DTS vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Cadillac DTS is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E 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 (275 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac DTS weights approximately 75 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. 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 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac DTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. 2009 Cadillac DTS has automatic transmission and 1996 Mercedes-Benz E has manual transmission. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Cadillac DTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac DTS | 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | DTS | E |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 70 L |
