The 2004 Cadillac XLR is equipped with technology to match its stunning exterior styling. Indeed, never before has a production model from GM been so sophisticated as the XLR. Its remarkable structure and chassis mean that the XLR can truly claim to be a luxury and performance roadster in one.
Lightweight design
Advanced materials form the basis of the XLR’s construction, including an abundance of aluminium, particularly for the cross members and suspension arms. Magnesium also features in the body and folding top, and advanced composite materials form the body, to make the XLR the lightest vehicle in its class, at just 3,650 lbs. Not only is it more lightweight than the Jaguar XK8, Mercedes-Benz SL500, or Lexus SC430, but also features the longest wheelbase, smallest height, widest track and produces the most horsepower.
Another advantage which the Cadillac XLR has over its competitors is its rear-mounted transmission, endowing the vehicle with an almost perfect 50:50 weight distribution front/rear. This allows the vehicle to display supreme balance and dexterity, as well as providing extra legroom for both driver and passenger.
Luxury and performance combined
The advanced suspension system was designed with the aim of making the XLR a genuine luxury sports car, with high-performance handling. In seeking this goal, Cadillac endowed the XLR with a double wishbone suspension setup, complemented by transverse-mounted leaf springs both at the front and the rear. Under normal driving conditions, the chassis demonstrates confident, comfortable handling. When pushed to the limit, the XLR maintains its stability and security, keeping a firm grip on the road, and is capable of achieving a lateral G-force of more than 0.9.
The StabiliTrak system
The XLR’s active handling is based upon the high-tech StabiliTrak system. This is a fully integrated, 4-channel system which is capable of controlling all four corners of the car. It acts instantly on demand, to enhance the XLR’s stability and directional control, aiming to reduce the probability of loss of control. The system analyses data from a number of sensors, and applies appropriate braking forces to maintain the desired course.
Ultra-fast suspension
The XLR holds the crown as one of the first models in the world to be fitted with Magnetic Ride Control: electronically controlled, real-time damping based on magnetic fluids. A set of four movement sensors analyse the motion of the wheels across the road surface, and are capable of adjusting the shock damping accordingly within one millisecond. This ultra-fast reaction time is around five times quicker than any previous “real time” damping technology.
The XLR’s futuristic technology is backed up by an impressive powerhouse: a 4.5 litre V8 engine, capable of producing 320 bhp and 310 lb/ft of peak torque. The combination of lightweight design and powerful engine means that the Cadillac XLR is capable of accelerating from 0-62 mph in just 5.9 seconds, with a top speed of around 155 mph.
© 2006 Martin Hemmings and Ken Leonard for www.sport-cars.org
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