2005 Cadillac XLR vs. 1996 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Cadillac XLR is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra 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 242 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 649 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. 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, 1996 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, 2005 Cadillac XLR (420 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 317 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (103 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2005 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Astra 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 | 1996 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Cadillac | Opel |
| Model | XLR | Astra |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4572 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1654 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 70 L |
