2002 Cadillac XLR vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Cadillac XLR. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Cadillac XLR would be higher. At 4,570 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Cadillac XLR (316 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 308 kg more than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Cadillac XLR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2002 Cadillac XLR (407 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2002 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. 2002 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Cadillac XLR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Cadillac XLR | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
| Model | XLR | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4570 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 316 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1654 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
