2005 Cadillac XLR vs. 1984 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Cadillac XLR is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,572 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Cadillac XLR (301 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 231 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 568 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 1984 Volkswagen Passat, 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 @ 4400 RPM) has 287 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2005 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. 2005 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1984 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1984 Volkswagen Passat 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 | 1984 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
| Model | XLR | Passat |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4572 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1654 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 60 L |
