2008 Cadillac XLR vs. 1988 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2008 Cadillac XLR is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Hyundai Sonata 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 210 more horse power than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. (110 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 418 kg more than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. 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, 1988 Hyundai Sonata, 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 (421 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. (193 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Hyundai Sonata. 2008 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1988 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 1988 Hyundai Sonata 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 | 1988 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Cadillac | Hyundai |
| Model | XLR | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4566 cc | 2351 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 421 Nm | 193 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1217 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2660 mm |
