2005 Cadillac XLR vs. 1989 Saab 9000
To start off, 2005 Cadillac XLR is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 4,572 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Cadillac XLR (301 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1989 Saab 9000. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1989 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 329 kg more than 1989 Saab 9000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Cadillac XLR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Saab 9000, 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, 2005 Cadillac XLR (420 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Saab 9000. (216 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Saab 9000. 2005 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1989 Saab 9000 has manual transmission. 1989 Saab 9000 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Cadillac XLR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Cadillac XLR | 1989 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Saab |
| Model | XLR | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4572 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1654 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 38 L |
