2009 Cadillac XLR vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2009 Cadillac XLR is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Vectra 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 196 more horse power than 2003 Opel Vectra. (125 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 75 kg more than 2003 Opel Vectra. 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, 2003 Opel Vectra, 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 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Vectra. (280 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Vectra. 2009 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 2003 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 2003 Opel Vectra 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 | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Cadillac | Opel |
| Model | XLR | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 2169 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 3.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1510 mm |
