2005 Cadillac XLR vs. 1986 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Cadillac XLR is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Golf 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 164 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. (137 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 747 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1986 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, 2005 Cadillac XLR (420 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 251 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. (169 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2005 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Golf. 2005 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1986 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1986 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 1986 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
| Model | XLR | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4572 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 8.1 seconds |
| 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 | 907 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
