2008 Cadillac XLR vs. 1978 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2008 Cadillac XLR is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 4,566 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac XLR (320 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 281 more horse power than 1978 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 923 kg more than 1978 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Cadillac XLR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Ford Fiesta, 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 (420 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 356 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Fiesta. 2008 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1978 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1978 Ford Fiesta 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 | 1978 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Cadillac | Ford |
| Model | XLR | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4566 cc | 956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 39 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 64 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1638 kg | 715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2300 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 34 L |
