2008 Cadillac XLR vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Cadillac XLR is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Golf 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 250 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 423 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf, 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 (421 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 295 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 2004 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2004 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
| Model | XLR | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4566 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 421 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 16.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1212 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.8 L/100km | 5.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
