2008 Cadillac XLR vs. 1987 Donkervoort S8
To start off, 2008 Cadillac XLR is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Donkervoort S8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Donkervoort S8 would be higher. At 4,371 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac XLR (444 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 329 more horse power than 1987 Donkervoort S8. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1987 Donkervoort S8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 885 kg more than 1987 Donkervoort S8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Donkervoort S8 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1987 Donkervoort S8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac XLR, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (561 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 395 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Donkervoort S8. (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Donkervoort S8. 2008 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1987 Donkervoort S8 has manual transmission. 1987 Donkervoort S8 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 | 1987 Donkervoort S8 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Donkervoort |
| Model | XLR | S8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4371 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 561 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1110 mm |
