2008 Cadillac XLR vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2008 Cadillac XLR is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 4,566 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac XLR (320 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 163 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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, 2008 Cadillac XLR (420 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2008 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Cadillac XLR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Cadillac XLR | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | XLR | 280 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4566 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1638 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 65 L |
