2008 Cadillac XLR vs. 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2008 Cadillac XLR is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix would be higher. At 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac XLR (320 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix. (173 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 59 kg more than 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix. 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, 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix. (264 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Cadillac XLR | 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Cadillac | Pontiac |
| Model | XLR | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 3128 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1501 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 3110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 66 L |
