2009 Cadillac XLR vs. 1982 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2009 Cadillac XLR is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac XLR (321 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 246 more horse power than 1982 Opel Ascona. (75 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1982 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 645 kg more than 1982 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Cadillac XLR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Opel Ascona, 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, 2009 Cadillac XLR (420 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 319 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Opel Ascona. (101 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac XLR | 1982 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Cadillac | Opel |
| Model | XLR | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 3.7:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2580 mm |
