2008 Cadillac XLR vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Cadillac XLR is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 4,566 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac XLR (320 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (134 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 378 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Cadillac XLR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra, 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, 2008 Cadillac XLR (420 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (188 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 2008 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Cadillac XLR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Cadillac XLR | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Cadillac | Opel |
| Model | XLR | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4566 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | 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 | 1638 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2620 mm |
