1985 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2011 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2011 Cadillac CTS is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Cadillac CTS (270 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 653 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 1985 Volkswagen Passat, 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 (302 Nm @ 5700 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2011 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Volkswagen Passat | 2011 Cadillac CTS | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Cadillac |
| Model | Passat | CTS |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 302 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1748 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4859 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1842 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2880 mm |
