2004 Cadillac XLR vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Cadillac XLR is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra 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 @ 6000 RPM) has 235 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (85 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 350 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. 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, 1998 Opel Astra, 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 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (188 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2004 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Cadillac XLR | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Cadillac | Opel |
| Model | XLR | Astra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4572 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 408 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| 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 | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 44 L |
