2003 Cadillac XLR vs. 1979 Honda Accord
To start off, 2003 Cadillac XLR is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Honda Accord 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 221 more horse power than 1979 Honda Accord. (90 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1979 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 740 kg more than 1979 Honda Accord. 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, 1979 Honda Accord, 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 287 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Honda Accord. (133 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Honda Accord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Cadillac XLR | 1979 Honda Accord | |
| Make | Cadillac | Honda |
| Model | XLR | Accord |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4572 cc | 1750 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 311 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 150 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1640 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2390 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 50 L |
