2002 Cadillac XLR vs. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Cadillac XLR is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Cadillac XLR (316 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. (261 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 28 kg more than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2002 Cadillac XLR (407 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. (405 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Cadillac XLR | 1988 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | XLR | S |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4570 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 316 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 405 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1654 kg | 1626 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2950 mm |
