2006 Cadillac XLR vs. 1989 Nissan Micra

To start off, 2006 Cadillac XLR is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Nissan Micra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan Micra 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 263 more horse power than 1989 Nissan Micra. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1989 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 929 kg more than 1989 Nissan Micra. 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, 1989 Nissan Micra, 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 327 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Nissan Micra. (96 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Nissan Micra. 2006 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1989 Nissan Micra has manual transmission. 1989 Nissan Micra 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 1989 Nissan Micra
Make Cadillac Nissan
Model XLR Micra
Year Released 2006 1989
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4563 cc 1235 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 322 HP 59 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 423 Nm 96 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 3200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1654 kg 725 kg
Vehicle Length 4520 mm 3770 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1570 mm
Vehicle Height 1290 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2690 mm 2310 mm