2009 Cadillac XLR vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Cadillac XLR is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac XLR (322 HP @ 6450 RPM) has 218 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 1292 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 2009 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1968 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1968 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Cadillac XLR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac XLR | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Cadillac | Lotus |
| Model | XLR | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 322 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6450 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1722 kg | 430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1100 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 45 L |
