2001 Cadillac XLR vs. 1959 Porsche 356
To start off, 2001 Cadillac XLR is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Cadillac XLR (316 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 242 more horse power than 1959 Porsche 356. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1959 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 799 kg more than 1959 Porsche 356. 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. 2001 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1959 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1959 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Cadillac XLR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Cadillac XLR | 1959 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Porsche |
| Model | XLR | 356 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 316 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1654 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2130 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 52 L |
