2004 Cadillac XLR vs. 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2004 Cadillac XLR is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier 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 200 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 453 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. 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, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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 232 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Cadillac XLR | 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Cadillac | Chevrolet |
| Model | XLR | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4572 cc | 2189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 408 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| 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 | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1640 kg | 1187 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 56 L |
