2009 Audi A8 vs. 2003 Cadillac XLR
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Cadillac XLR. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Cadillac XLR would be higher. At 4,572 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (350 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2003 Cadillac XLR. (311 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Cadillac XLR. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 476 kg more than 2009 Audi A8.
Because 2009 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Cadillac XLR. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Audi A8 (441 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Cadillac XLR. (420 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Cadillac XLR. 2009 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2003 Cadillac XLR has manual transmission. 2003 Cadillac XLR will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 2003 Cadillac XLR | |
| Make | Audi | Cadillac |
| Model | A8 | XLR |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 4572 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 441 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1164 kg | 1640 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 64 L |
