2008 Cadillac XLR vs. 1989 Porsche 944
To start off, 2008 Cadillac XLR is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Porsche 944. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 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) has 227 more horse power than 1989 Porsche 944. (217 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1989 Porsche 944. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 147 kg more than 1989 Porsche 944. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 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) has 231 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Porsche 944. (330 Nm). This means 2008 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Porsche 944. 2008 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1989 Porsche 944 has manual transmission. 1989 Porsche 944 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 | 1989 Porsche 944 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Porsche |
| Model | XLR | 944 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4371 cc | 2479 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 217 HP |
| Torque | 561 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1413 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2390 mm |
