2001 Cadillac XLR vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Cadillac XLR. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Cadillac XLR would be higher. At 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS (563 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 247 more horse power than 2001 Cadillac XLR. (316 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS should accelerate faster than 2001 Cadillac XLR. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS weights approximately 7 kg more than 2001 Cadillac XLR. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS (649 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Cadillac XLR. (401 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Cadillac XLR.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Cadillac XLR | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | XLR | SLS |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 316 HP | 563 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 649 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 317 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 3.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1654 kg | 1661 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4638 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1938 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 85 L |
