2008 Cadillac XLR vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Cadillac XLR is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 45 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (275 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 260 kg more than 2008 Cadillac XLR.
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 (421 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Cadillac XLR | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | XLR | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4566 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 421 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 88 L |
