1996 Ford Ka vs. 2008 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2008 Cadillac CTS is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Ka would be higher. At 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac CTS (215 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 882 kg more than 1996 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Cadillac CTS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Ford Ka, 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, 2008 Cadillac CTS (300 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ka. 2008 Cadillac CTS has automatic transmission and 1996 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 1996 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Cadillac CTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ka | 2008 Cadillac CTS | |
| Make | Ford | Cadillac |
| Model | Ka | CTS |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 233 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 908 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 68 L |
