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 143 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (168 HP @ 5700 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 280 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 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle 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. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Cadillac XLR | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
| Model | XLR | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4572 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 311 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1640 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
