1999 Cadillac Catera vs. 1988 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1999 Cadillac Catera is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Cadillac Catera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Cadillac Catera (301 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 257 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Cadillac Catera should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Cadillac Catera weights approximately 796 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Cadillac Catera 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 1999 Cadillac Catera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 1999 Cadillac Catera (370 Nm) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. (95 Nm). This means 1999 Cadillac Catera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Polo. 1999 Cadillac Catera has automatic transmission and 1988 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1988 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Cadillac Catera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Cadillac Catera | 1988 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Catera | Polo |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1566 kg | 770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2340 mm |
