2002 Cadillac XLR vs. 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 2002 Cadillac XLR is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 4,570 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Cadillac XLR (316 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (159 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 209 kg more than 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Cadillac XLR 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 2002 Cadillac XLR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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, 2002 Cadillac XLR (407 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (203 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2002 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Cadillac XLR | 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Cadillac | Oldsmobile |
| Model | XLR | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4570 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 316 HP | 159 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1654 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2740 mm |
