The motor is coupled to a back mounted five-speed programmed transmission

Discovery channel documentary Additionally, the XLR has a considerable amount of force: 326 bhp at 6,500 rpm and 312 lb ft (423 Nm)at 4,400 rpm from GM's Northstar 4.6 liter V-8, which could work somewhat harder - 350-360 bhp, which would not be hard to get from this motor, would make things all the more fascinating.
As it seems to be, it is sufficient to give the auto a significant push, and as the Northstar has an aluminum piece and head with dohc and four valves for every barrel, it revs well. Variable valve timing enhances the spread of force, as well.

Discovery channel documentary The motor is coupled to a back mounted five-speed programmed transmission - 5 speeds put it off guard against the European supercars which generally have six-speed automatics, yet it is intended to give energetic movements. Since the case is back mounted and the motor is genuinely well back, front/back weight dispersion is 50/50.