1986 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2012 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2012 Cadillac CTS is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Cadillac CTS (318 HP) has 265 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 903 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 1986 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 (372 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 276 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2012 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Jetta. 2012 Cadillac CTS has automatic transmission and 1986 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1986 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Cadillac CTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Volkswagen Jetta | 2012 Cadillac CTS | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Cadillac |
| Model | Jetta | CTS |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1271 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 318 HP |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 372 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 875 kg | 1778 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4859 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1842 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2880 mm |
