1980 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2012 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2012 Cadillac CTS is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Cadillac CTS (270 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 828 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Cadillac CTS 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 2012 Cadillac CTS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 2012 Cadillac CTS (302 Nm @ 5700 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Passat. (126 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Volkswagen Passat | 2012 Cadillac CTS | |
Make | Volkswagen | Cadillac |
Model | Passat | CTS |
Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 126 Nm | 302 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 1748 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4877 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1842 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1473 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2880 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 68 L |