2003 Cadillac XLR vs. 1985 GMC Suburban

To start off, 2003 Cadillac XLR is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 GMC Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 GMC Suburban 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 158 more horse power than 1985 GMC Suburban. (153 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1985 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 GMC Suburban weights approximately 600 kg more than 2003 Cadillac XLR.

Because 1985 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Cadillac XLR. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 GMC Suburban will offer significantly more control. 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 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 GMC Suburban. (312 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 GMC Suburban. 1985 GMC Suburban has automatic transmission and 2003 Cadillac XLR has manual transmission. 2003 Cadillac XLR will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 GMC Suburban will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Cadillac XLR 1985 GMC Suburban
Make Cadillac GMC
Model XLR Suburban
Year Released 2003 1985
Body Type Convertible SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4572 cc 4299 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 311 HP 153 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 420 Nm 312 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 2400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1640 kg 2240 kg
Vehicle Length 4520 mm 5480 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1950 mm
Vehicle Height 1290 mm 1800 mm
Wheelbase Size 2690 mm 3300 mm