2009 Cadillac XLR vs. 1978 Holden GTS

To start off, 2009 Cadillac XLR is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Holden GTS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Holden GTS would be higher. At 4,369 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac XLR (444 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 286 more horse power than 1978 Holden GTS. (158 HP @ 4550 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden GTS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 246 kg more than 1978 Holden GTS. 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 234 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Holden GTS. (327 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Holden GTS. 2009 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1978 Holden GTS has manual transmission. 1978 Holden GTS 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 1978 Holden GTS
Make Cadillac Holden
Model XLR GTS
Year Released 2009 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4369 cc 4141 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 444 HP 158 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 4550 RPM
Torque 561 Nm 327 Nm
Torque RPM 3900 RPM 2600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1721 kg 1475 kg
Vehicle Length 4520 mm 4850 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1880 mm
Vehicle Height 1290 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2690 mm 2830 mm