2008 Cadillac XLR vs. 2001 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2008 Cadillac XLR is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Firebird 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 246 more horse power than 2001 Pontiac Firebird. (198 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 2001 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 99 kg more than 2001 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Pontiac Firebird 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 2001 Pontiac Firebird. 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 256 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Pontiac Firebird. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Pontiac Firebird. 2008 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 2001 Pontiac Firebird has manual transmission. 2001 Pontiac Firebird 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 | 2001 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Cadillac | Pontiac |
Model | XLR | Firebird |
Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4371 cc | 3791 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 444 HP | 198 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 561 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
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 | 1461 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 58 L |