1999 BMW 540 vs. 2003 Cadillac XLR
To start off, 2003 Cadillac XLR is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 540 would be higher. At 4,572 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Cadillac XLR (311 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1999 BMW 540. (282 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 540. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 540 weights approximately 131 kg more than 2003 Cadillac XLR.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1999 BMW 540 (439 Nm) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Cadillac XLR. (420 Nm). This means 1999 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Cadillac XLR.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 540 | 2003 Cadillac XLR | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 540 | XLR |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 4572 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 439 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1771 kg | 1640 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2690 mm |
