2008 Cadillac XLR vs. 1978 Volvo 240
To start off, 2008 Cadillac XLR is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac XLR (320 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 240. (104 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 240.
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 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 240. (160 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Cadillac XLR | 1978 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volvo |
| Model | XLR | 240 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 2127 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2650 mm |
