2009 Cadillac XLR vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Cadillac XLR is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Elan 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 156 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 615 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan. 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 Lotus Elan, 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 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan. 2009 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1989 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1989 Lotus Elan 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 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Cadillac | Lotus |
Model | XLR | Elan |
Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4565 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 321 HP | 165 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 420 Nm | 201 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 3.7:1 | 8.2:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2260 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 65 L |