2005 Cadillac XLR vs. 1981 Fiat Strada

To start off, 2005 Cadillac XLR is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat Strada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat Strada would be higher. At 4,564 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Cadillac XLR (322 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1981 Fiat Strada. (125 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat Strada. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 674 kg more than 1981 Fiat Strada. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 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 2005 Cadillac XLR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Fiat Strada, 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, 2005 Cadillac XLR (420 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat Strada. (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat Strada. 2005 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1981 Fiat Strada has manual transmission. 1981 Fiat Strada will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Cadillac XLR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Cadillac XLR 1981 Fiat Strada
Make Cadillac Fiat
Model XLR Strada
Year Released 2005 1981
Body Type Convertible Pickup
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4564 cc 1995 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 322 HP 125 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 420 Nm 172 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 9.5:1
Top Speed 250 km/hour 185 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1654 kg 980 kg
Vehicle Length 4520 mm 3940 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1290 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2690 mm 2440 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 68 L 50 L