2008 Cadillac XLR vs. 1972 Chevrolet Corvette
To start off, 2008 Cadillac XLR is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 5,734 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine.
Because 1972 Chevrolet Corvette 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 1972 Chevrolet Corvette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac XLR, 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, 2008 Cadillac XLR (561 Nm) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Chevrolet Corvette. (380 Nm). This means 2008 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Chevrolet Corvette. 2008 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1972 Chevrolet Corvette has manual transmission. 1972 Chevrolet Corvette will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Cadillac XLR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Cadillac XLR | 1972 Chevrolet Corvette | |
| Make | Cadillac | Chevrolet |
| Model | XLR | Corvette |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4371 cc | 5734 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 561 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2500 mm |
