2004 Cadillac XLR vs. 1989 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Cadillac XLR is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 4,572 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Cadillac XLR (320 HP) has 267 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 810 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Cadillac XLR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2004 Cadillac XLR (408 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 312 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Cadillac XLR | 1989 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
Model | XLR | Golf |
Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4572 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 320 HP | 53 HP |
Torque | 408 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
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 | 830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2340 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |