2005 Cadillac XLR vs. 2004 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2005 Cadillac XLR is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Polo 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 216 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 542 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Polo, 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 290 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2005 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. 2005 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 2004 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 2004 Volkswagen Polo 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 2004 Volkswagen Polo
Make Cadillac Volkswagen
Model XLR Polo
Year Released 2005 2004
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4572 cc 1388 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 301 HP 85 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 420 Nm 130 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 3750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 93.1 mm 76.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84 mm 75.6 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 12.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1654 kg 1112 kg
Vehicle Length 4520 mm 3900 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1290 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2690 mm 2470 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 68 L 45 L