2001 Cadillac XLR vs. 1988 Ford Tempo
To start off, 2001 Cadillac XLR is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Cadillac XLR (316 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 1988 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 549 kg more than 1988 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Cadillac XLR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Ford Tempo, 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, 2001 Cadillac XLR (401 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Tempo. (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2001 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Cadillac XLR | 1988 Ford Tempo | |
| Make | Cadillac | Ford |
| Model | XLR | Tempo |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 316 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1654 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2540 mm |
