2008 Cadillac XLR vs. 1981 Honda Accord
To start off, 2008 Cadillac XLR is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Honda Accord would be higher. At 4,371 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac XLR (444 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 365 more horse power than 1981 Honda Accord. (79 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1981 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 670 kg more than 1981 Honda Accord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 @ 3900 RPM) has 435 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Honda Accord. (126 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Honda Accord. 2008 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1981 Honda Accord has manual transmission. 1981 Honda Accord 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 | 1981 Honda Accord | |
| Make | Cadillac | Honda |
| Model | XLR | Accord |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4371 cc | 1602 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 561 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2390 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 50 L |
