2009 Cadillac XLR vs. 1986 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Cadillac XLR is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Passat 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 (322 HP @ 6450 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (136 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 562 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. 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 Volkswagen Passat, 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 (423 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac XLR | 1986 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
| Model | XLR | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 2226 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 322 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6450 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 423 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 10.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1722 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 40 L |
