2009 Cadillac XLR vs. 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle
To start off, 2009 Cadillac XLR is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle 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 (321 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 152 kg more than 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Cadillac XLR (420 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. (251 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle. 2009 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle has manual transmission. 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle 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 | 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle | |
| Make | Cadillac | Chevrolet |
| Model | XLR | Chevelle |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 4097 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 3.7:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1483 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 5020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 72 L |
