1981 Cadillac Eldorado vs. 2011 Cadillac Escalade
To start off, 2011 Cadillac Escalade is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Cadillac Eldorado. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Cadillac Eldorado would be higher. At 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Cadillac Escalade is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Cadillac Escalade (403 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 264 more horse power than 1981 Cadillac Eldorado. (139 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Cadillac Escalade should accelerate faster than 1981 Cadillac Eldorado. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Cadillac Escalade weights approximately 989 kg more than 1981 Cadillac Eldorado. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Cadillac Escalade 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 2011 Cadillac Escalade. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Cadillac Eldorado, 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, 2011 Cadillac Escalade (565 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Cadillac Eldorado. (358 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2011 Cadillac Escalade will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Cadillac Eldorado.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Cadillac Eldorado | 2011 Cadillac Escalade | |
| Make | Cadillac | Cadillac |
| Model | Eldorado | Escalade |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6030 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 403 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 358 Nm | 565 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 2619 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 5662 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 2009 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1857 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 3302 mm |
