1981 Nissan Leopard vs. 2010 Cadillac DTS

To start off, 2010 Cadillac DTS is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Leopard. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Leopard would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Cadillac DTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Cadillac DTS (275 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Leopard. (134 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Leopard. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Cadillac DTS weights approximately 578 kg more than 1981 Nissan Leopard. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1981 Nissan Leopard 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 1981 Nissan Leopard. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Cadillac DTS, 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, 2010 Cadillac DTS (400 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Leopard. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Cadillac DTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Leopard. 2010 Cadillac DTS has automatic transmission and 1981 Nissan Leopard has manual transmission. 1981 Nissan Leopard will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Cadillac DTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Nissan Leopard 2010 Cadillac DTS
Make Nissan Cadillac
Model Leopard DTS
Year Released 1981 2010
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2753 cc 4600 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 134 HP 275 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 226 Nm 400 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1240 kg 1818 kg
Vehicle Length 4640 mm 5273 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1900 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1463 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 2936 mm