2006 Cadillac XLR vs. 1987 Volkswagen Polo
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 Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 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 278 more horse power than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 885 kg more than 1987 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, 1987 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 (420 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 325 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. (95 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volkswagen Polo. 2006 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1987 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1987 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 | 1987 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
| Model | XLR | Polo |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4563 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 322 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2340 mm |
