2009 Cadillac XLR vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2009 Cadillac XLR is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 208 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 404 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 250 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Cadillac XLR | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
| Model | XLR | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4565 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 3.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
