1996 BMW 725 vs. 2008 Cadillac XLR
To start off, 2008 Cadillac XLR is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 725 would be higher. At 4,371 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac XLR (444 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 303 more horse power than 1996 BMW 725. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 725. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 725 weights approximately 225 kg more than 2008 Cadillac XLR.
Because 1996 BMW 725 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 1996 BMW 725. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac XLR, 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, 2008 Cadillac XLR (561 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 281 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 725. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 725. 2008 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 725 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 725 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Cadillac XLR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 725 | 2008 Cadillac XLR | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 725 | XLR |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 4371 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 444 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 561 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2690 mm |
