1984 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2011 Cadillac DTS
To start off, 2011 Cadillac DTS is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Cadillac DTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Cadillac DTS (275 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Cadillac DTS weights approximately 878 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 DTS (400 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 298 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. (102 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2011 Cadillac DTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Jetta. 2011 Cadillac DTS has automatic transmission and 1984 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1984 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Cadillac DTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Volkswagen Jetta | 2011 Cadillac DTS | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Cadillac |
| Model | Jetta | DTS |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1818 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 5273 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1463 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2936 mm |
