2006 Cadillac XLR vs. 1983 Ford Fiesta

To start off, 2006 Cadillac XLR is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Fiesta 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 282 more horse power than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (40 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 940 kg more than 1983 Ford Fiesta. 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, 1983 Ford Fiesta, 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 (420 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 356 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2006 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Fiesta. 2006 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1983 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1983 Ford Fiesta 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 1983 Ford Fiesta
Make Cadillac Ford
Model XLR Fiesta
Year Released 2006 1983
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4563 cc 957 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 322 HP 40 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 420 Nm 64 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 93 mm 74 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84 mm 55.7 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 8.3:1
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 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1655 kg 715 kg
Vehicle Length 4520 mm 3570 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1570 mm
Vehicle Height 1290 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2690 mm 2300 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 68 L 34 L