2009 Cadillac XLR vs. 1985 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 Cadillac XLR is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 4,369 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac XLR (444 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 341 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 781 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. 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, 1985 Mazda 323, 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 (561 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 424 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323. 2009 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1985 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1985 Mazda 323 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 | 1985 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mazda |
| Model | XLR | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4369 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 561 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1721 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2410 mm |
