2009 Cadillac XLR vs. 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2009 Cadillac XLR is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 117 more horse power than 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. (205 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 157 kg more than 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Cadillac XLR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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, 2009 Cadillac XLR (423 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix. (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac XLR | 1988 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Cadillac | Pontiac |
| Model | XLR | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 3097 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 322 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6450 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 423 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1722 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 76 L |
