2008 Cadillac XLR vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Cadillac XLR is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,513 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 2008 Cadillac XLR. (320 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Cadillac XLR. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 324 kg more than 2008 Cadillac XLR. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm) has 279 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Cadillac XLR. (421 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Cadillac XLR.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Cadillac XLR | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | XLR | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4566 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 421 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1959 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 9.8 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.7 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 91 L |
