1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2006 Cadillac XLR
To start off, 2006 Cadillac XLR is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 4,563 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Cadillac XLR (322 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (139 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 269 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Cadillac XLR 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 2006 Cadillac XLR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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, 2006 Cadillac XLR (423 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. 2006 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Cadillac XLR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2006 Cadillac XLR | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Cadillac |
| Model | Spider | XLR |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 4563 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 322 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 423 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1654 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.9 L/100km | 12.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 68 L |
