2009 Cadillac XLR vs. 1977 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2009 Cadillac XLR is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac XLR (444 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1977 Pontiac Firebird. (285 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1977 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 125 kg more than 1977 Pontiac Firebird. 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 (561 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Pontiac Firebird. (421 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac XLR | 1977 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Cadillac | Pontiac |
| Model | XLR | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4369 cc | 6547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 285 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 561 Nm | 421 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 104.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1721 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 76 L |
