1981 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2004 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2004 Cadillac CTS is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Cadillac CTS (179 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 595 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Cadillac CTS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2004 Cadillac CTS (232 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. 2004 Cadillac CTS has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Cadillac CTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Volkswagen Golf | 2004 Cadillac CTS | |
Make | Volkswagen | Cadillac |
Model | Golf | CTS |
Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2597 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 179 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 232 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83.2 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 79.6 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1780 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2950 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |