2005 Cadillac XLR vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 2005 Cadillac XLR is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 4,564 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Cadillac XLR (322 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (218 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 94 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. 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, 2005 Cadillac XLR (420 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Cadillac XLR | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | XLR | 380 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4564 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 322 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 71.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1654 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 90 L |
