2009 Cadillac XLR vs. 1986 Ford Escort

To start off, 2009 Cadillac XLR is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort 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 262 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 725 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. 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, 1986 Ford Escort, 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 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 2009 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Escort 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 1986 Ford Escort
Make Cadillac Ford
Model XLR Escort
Year Released 2009 1986
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4565 cc 1751 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 321 HP 59 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 420 Nm 110 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 3.7:1 21.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
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 910 kg
Vehicle Length 4520 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1290 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2690 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 68 L 45 L