2008 Cadillac XLR vs. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am
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 Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Grand Am 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 172 more horse power than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 205 kg more than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. 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, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am, 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) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. (278 Nm). This means 2008 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Cadillac XLR | 2001 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Cadillac | Pontiac |
| Model | XLR | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4566 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 421 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2720 mm |
