2003 Cadillac XLR vs. 1982 Ford Escort
To start off, 2003 Cadillac XLR is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Ford Escort 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 208 more horse power than 1982 Ford Escort. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 716 kg more than 1982 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Cadillac XLR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Ford Escort, 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, 2003 Cadillac XLR (420 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 283 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Escort. (137 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2003 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Cadillac XLR | 1982 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Cadillac | Ford |
| Model | XLR | Escort |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4572 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 311 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1640 kg | 924 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 40 L |
