1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2011 Cadillac CTS is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf 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 155 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 584 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, 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 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 2011 Cadillac CTS has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Cadillac CTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 Cadillac CTS | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Cadillac |
| Model | Golf | CTS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 302 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1744 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4859 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1842 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.2 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
