2001 Cadillac XLR vs. 2007 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 6 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 168 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 414 kg more than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2007 Volkswagen Golf, 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 201 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

2001 Cadillac XLR 2007 Volkswagen Golf
Make Cadillac Volkswagen
Model XLR Golf
Year Released 2001 2007
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4565 cc 1983 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 316 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 401 Nm 200 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 93 mm 82.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84 mm 92.8 mm
Top Speed 250 km/hour 206 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 5.9 seconds 8.9 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1654 kg 1240 kg
Vehicle Length 4520 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1290 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2690 mm 2590 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 68 L 55 L