2008 Audi A3 vs. 2002 Cadillac XLR
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Cadillac XLR. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Cadillac XLR would be higher. At 4,570 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Cadillac XLR (316 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 294 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Cadillac XLR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3, 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, 2002 Cadillac XLR (407 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2002 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2002 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Cadillac XLR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2002 Cadillac XLR | |
| Make | Audi | Cadillac |
| Model | A3 | XLR |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 4570 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 316 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.4 seconds | 5.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1654 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
