2009 Cadillac XLR vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Cadillac XLR is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo S40 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 154 more horse power than 2003 Volvo S40. (168 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 222 kg more than 2003 Volvo S40. 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 Volvo S40, 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 193 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo S40. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac XLR | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volvo |
| Model | XLR | S40 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 322 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6450 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 423 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 8.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1722 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 62 L |
