2006 Cadillac XLR vs. 1978 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2006 Cadillac XLR is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 4,563 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Cadillac XLR (322 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 273 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 969 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Cadillac XLR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 2006 Cadillac XLR (423 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 346 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. 2006 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Cadillac XLR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Cadillac XLR | 1978 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
| Model | XLR | Polo |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4563 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 322 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 423 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| 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 | 685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 35 L |
