2006 Cadillac XLR vs. 1987 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2006 Cadillac XLR is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volkswagen Jetta 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) has 269 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 780 kg more than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 1987 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 323 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. (97 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2006 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Jetta. 2006 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1987 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1987 Volkswagen Jetta 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 | 1987 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
| Model | XLR | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4563 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 322 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 97 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 72 mm |
| 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 | 1655 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2480 mm |
