Aston Martin Vanquish

vs

Cadillac XLR-V

UK vs USA — 2001 vs 2006

Aston Martin Vanquish (2001)
Cadillac XLR-V (2006)
Specifications
Vanquish S V12XLR-V Supercharged Northstar
Horsepower520 hp443 hp
Torque425 lb-ft414 lb-ft
Engine Size5,935 cc4,371 cc
0-60 mph4.6 sec4.6 sec
Top Speed200 mph155 mph
¼ Mile12.8 sec13.0 sec
Weight4,046 lbs4,022 lbs
Wheelbase2,690 mm2,685 mm
Length4,665 mm4,515 mm
Units Produced2,5822,485
Original MSRP$255,000$98,290
Value (Excellent)$250,000$55,000
Collectibility7/106/10
Rarity6/108/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 2001 Aston Martin Vanquish S V12 brings more power, higher top speed, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 2006 Cadillac XLR-V Supercharged Northstar answers with quicker acceleration, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

The rivalry between UK and USA automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 2001 Aston Martin Vanquish S V12 versus 2006 Cadillac XLR-V Supercharged Northstar is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 2001 Aston Martin Vanquish S V12 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 520 hp compared to 443 hp, a 77-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Aston Martin Vanquish uses a V12 DOHC displacing 5,935 cc, while the Cadillac XLR-V relies on a V8 DOHC Supercharged (Northstar LC3) with 4,371 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2006 Cadillac XLR-V Supercharged Northstar edges ahead at 4.6 seconds versus 4.6 seconds. On the collector market, the 2001 Aston Martin Vanquish S V12 commands a significant premium over the 2006 Cadillac XLR-V Supercharged Northstar, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.