1984 Honda Civic vs. 2012 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2012 Cadillac CTS is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Honda Civic 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) has 170 more horse power than 1984 Honda Civic. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1984 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 593 kg more than 1984 Honda Civic. 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, 1984 Honda Civic, 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 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Honda Civic. (130 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Honda Civic | 2012 Cadillac CTS | |
| Make | Honda | Cadillac |
| Model | Civic | CTS |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 270 HP |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 302 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1748 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4877 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1842 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2880 mm |
