1981 Nissan Stanza vs. 2011 Cadillac CTS

To start off, 2011 Cadillac CTS is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Stanza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Stanza would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Cadillac CTS (304 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 223 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (81 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Stanza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 877 kg more than 1981 Nissan Stanza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2011 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 2011 Cadillac CTS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Stanza, 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 CTS (370 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (130 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2011 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Stanza. 2011 Cadillac CTS has automatic transmission and 1981 Nissan Stanza has manual transmission. 1981 Nissan Stanza will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Cadillac CTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Nissan Stanza 2011 Cadillac CTS
Make Nissan Cadillac
Model Stanza CTS
Year Released 1981 2011
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1598 cc 3600 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 81 HP 304 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 6400 RPM
Torque 130 Nm 370 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 5200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 880 kg 1757 kg
Vehicle Length 4310 mm 4859 mm
Vehicle Width 1670 mm 1842 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1473 mm
Wheelbase Size 2480 mm 2880 mm