1998 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 2009 Cadillac XLR
To start off, 2009 Cadillac XLR is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 would be higher. At 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac XLR (321 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. (155 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 140 kg more than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Cadillac XLR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166, 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, 2009 Cadillac XLR (420 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. (187 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. 2009 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 has manual transmission. 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Cadillac XLR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 | 2009 Cadillac XLR | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Cadillac |
| Model | 166 | XLR |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 4565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 321 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 3.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 68 L |
