2009 Cadillac XLR vs. 1998 Chrysler Viper
To start off, 2009 Cadillac XLR is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chrysler Viper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chrysler Viper would be higher. At 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1998 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2009 Cadillac XLR. (321 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 2009 Cadillac XLR. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 45 kg more than 1998 Chrysler Viper.
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, 1998 Chrysler Viper (621 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Cadillac XLR. (420 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Cadillac XLR. 2009 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1998 Chrysler Viper has manual transmission. 1998 Chrysler Viper 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 | 1998 Chrysler Viper | |
| Make | Cadillac | Chrysler |
| Model | XLR | Viper |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 7986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5150 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 621 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2450 mm |
