2001 Cadillac XLR vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Cadillac XLR. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Cadillac XLR would be higher. At 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Cadillac XLR (316 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (100 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 362 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Cadillac XLR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2001 Cadillac XLR (401 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (155 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2001 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2001 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Cadillac XLR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Cadillac XLR | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
Model | XLR | New Beetle |
Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4565 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 316 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 401 Nm | 155 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 77.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1654 kg | 1292 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |