Cadillac XLR-V Roadster (2009)

Overview:

Once one of the world's greatest carmakers, Cadillac has seen more ups and downs over the past few decades than Apple's stock price. However, GM's wreath-and-crest division has made a concerted effort in recent years to reclaim its former glory. Rather than allow European and Japanese automakers to rule the luxury-brand roost, Cadillac has decided to tackle its competitors head-on. A key part of this effort is the company's halo car, the 2009 Cadillac XLR-V. As the ultrahigh-performance version of the XLR two-seat retractable hardtop roadster, the XLR-V serves notice to European automakers that they don't have an exclusive hold on sexy drop tops with blistering performance. The XLR-V also boasts the requisite six-figure price of admission. Subtle hints such as 19-inch wheels, a mesh grille and quad exhaust tips clearly signal that this is no ordinary XLR. Backing up the "V" badge is a hand-built, supercharged 4.4-liter V8 that cranks out a lusty 443 horsepower, along with firmer suspension tuning and upgraded brakes. With its muscular engine and Corvette-based platform, one would expect the Cadillac XLR-V to be a strong performer. Sure enough, its ripping acceleration leaves lesser luxury roadsters behind, and its handling and braking are more than respectable. Yet its relatively uncommunicative steering leaves us cold, and its handling still isn't as sharp as what you'll find in the European competition. As such, the XLR-V is far from class-leading in the driver entertainment category.

Handling:

• Four-wheel ABS.
• Four disc brakes including four ventilated discs.
• Electronic brake distribution.
• Electronic traction control via ABS & engine management.
• Immobilizer.
• Rear limited slip differential.
• Responsive suspension.
• Stability control.
• Wishbone front and rear suspension independent with stabilizer bar and leaf springs.

Performance/Specifications:

• One supercharger compressor.
• 4,371 cc 4.4 liters V 8 front engine with 91.0 mm bore, 84.0 mm stroke, 9.0 compression ratio, double overhead cam, variable valve timing/camshaft and four valves per cylinder LC3
• Premium unleaded fuel 91
• Multi-point injection fuel system.
• 18.0 gallon main premium unleaded fuel tank 15.0
• Power: 330 kW , 443 HP SAE @ 6,400 rpm; 414 ft lb , 561 Nm @ 3,900 rpm