2009 Cadillac XLR vs. 1982 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Cadillac XLR is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Polo 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 283 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (38 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 935 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. 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 Volkswagen Polo, 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 345 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. (75 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Polo. 2009 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1982 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1982 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Cadillac XLR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac XLR | 1982 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
| Model | XLR | Polo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 75 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2700 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 | 1635 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
