2008 Cadillac XLR vs. 1988 Porsche 944
To start off, 2008 Cadillac XLR is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Porsche 944. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Porsche 944 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 282 more horse power than 1988 Porsche 944. (162 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1988 Porsche 944.
Because 1988 Porsche 944 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 1988 Porsche 944. 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 @ 3900 RPM) has 336 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Porsche 944. (225 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Porsche 944.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Cadillac XLR | 1988 Porsche 944 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Porsche |
| Model | XLR | 944 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4371 cc | 2680 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 561 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 104 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2390 mm |
