2003 Cadillac XLR vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Cadillac XLR. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Cadillac XLR 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 173 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 320 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. 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, 2013 Volkswagen 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, 2003 Cadillac XLR (420 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Cadillac XLR | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
Model | XLR | Beetle |
Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4572 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 311 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 420 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 16.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1640 kg | 1320 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |