2008 Cadillac XLR vs. 1979 Renault 4
To start off, 2008 Cadillac XLR is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Renault 4 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 286 more horse power than 1979 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 943 kg more than 1979 Renault 4. 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, 1979 Renault 4, 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 358 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 4. (62 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 4. 2008 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1979 Renault 4 has manual transmission. 1979 Renault 4 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 | 1979 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Renault |
| Model | XLR | 4 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4566 cc | 955 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 62 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1638 kg | 695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2410 mm |
