2000 Cadillac XLR vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2000 Cadillac XLR is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2000 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Cadillac XLR (301 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 248 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 634 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 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 2000 Cadillac XLR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2000 Cadillac XLR (428 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 328 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2000 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Cadillac XLR | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
| Model | XLR | Passat |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 428 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1654 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1390 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 60 L |
