What is it?
2004 Cadillac XLR
What's special about it?
Built on an advanced new performance car chassis made specifically for convertibles, the XLR promises exceptional structural integrity and outstanding handling. Dave Hill, chief engineer, calls the XLR "a luxury roadster with performance car roots. Underneath its striking exterior style, [the] XLR has a patented performance car body structure that is ideal for a roadster and serves as a strong foundation for a car designed for great agility and bona fide luxury." The rear-wheel drive convertible will be powered by a high-output 4.6-liter Northstar V8.
Why should you care?
Competing in the entry-level sedan market with the CTS is one thing, but taking the "art and science" design philosophy into the high-dollar luxury roadster market is quite another. The XLR is going to need more than just superb handling and eye-catching sheetmetal to compete against the likes of Mercedes' new SL and Maserati's upcoming Spyder. With product chief Bob Lutz clamoring for top-notch interiors and world-class build quality, however, the XLR might just have a chance. — Ed Hellwig
2004 Cadillac XLR
What's special about it?
Built on an advanced new performance car chassis made specifically for convertibles, the XLR promises exceptional structural integrity and outstanding handling. Dave Hill, chief engineer, calls the XLR "a luxury roadster with performance car roots. Underneath its striking exterior style, [the] XLR has a patented performance car body structure that is ideal for a roadster and serves as a strong foundation for a car designed for great agility and bona fide luxury." The rear-wheel drive convertible will be powered by a high-output 4.6-liter Northstar V8.
Why should you care?
Competing in the entry-level sedan market with the CTS is one thing, but taking the "art and science" design philosophy into the high-dollar luxury roadster market is quite another. The XLR is going to need more than just superb handling and eye-catching sheetmetal to compete against the likes of Mercedes' new SL and Maserati's upcoming Spyder. With product chief Bob Lutz clamoring for top-notch interiors and world-class build quality, however, the XLR might just have a chance. — Ed Hellwig
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