2009 Cadillac XLR vs. 1989 Honda Prelude
To start off, 2009 Cadillac XLR is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Honda Prelude. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Honda Prelude 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 209 more horse power than 1989 Honda Prelude. (112 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1989 Honda Prelude. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 530 kg more than 1989 Honda Prelude. 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, 1989 Honda Prelude, 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 (420 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Honda Prelude. (157 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Honda Prelude. 2009 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1989 Honda Prelude has manual transmission. 1989 Honda Prelude 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 | 1989 Honda Prelude | |
| Make | Cadillac | Honda |
| Model | XLR | Prelude |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 1958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 3.7:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2580 mm |
