2004 BMW 318 vs. 2002 Cadillac XLR

To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 2 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 168 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 274 kg more than 2004 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 207 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2002 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318. 2002 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 318 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:

2004 BMW 318 2002 Cadillac XLR
Make BMW Cadillac
Model 318 XLR
Year Released 2004 2002
Body Type Hatchback Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 4570 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 148 HP 316 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6400 RPM
Torque 200 Nm 407 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 4400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 93 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 84 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 10.5:1
Acceleration 0-100mph 9.3 seconds 5.9 seconds
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1380 kg 1654 kg
Vehicle Length 4270 mm 4520 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1840 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1290 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2690 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 68 L