2005 Cadillac XLR vs. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2005 Cadillac XLR is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 61 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. (240 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 40 kg more than 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. 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, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix. (380 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Cadillac XLR | 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Cadillac | Pontiac |
| Model | XLR | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4572 cc | 3789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1654 kg | 1614 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 66 L |
