2003 Cadillac XLR vs. 1975 Saab 99
To start off, 2003 Cadillac XLR is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Saab 99 would be higher. At 4,572 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Cadillac XLR (311 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 1975 Saab 99. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1975 Saab 99. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 520 kg more than 1975 Saab 99. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Cadillac XLR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 Saab 99, 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, 2003 Cadillac XLR (420 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 273 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Saab 99. (147 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Saab 99.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Cadillac XLR | 1975 Saab 99 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Saab |
| Model | XLR | 99 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4572 cc | 1854 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 311 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1640 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 60 L |
