2005 Cadillac XLR vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Cadillac XLR. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Cadillac XLR 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 217 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 525 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. 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, 2006 Mazda 3, 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 274 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3. 2005 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda 3 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 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mazda |
| Model | XLR | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4564 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 322 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1654 kg | 1129 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
