2002 Cadillac CTS vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Cadillac CTS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Cadillac CTS would be higher. At 3,173 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Cadillac CTS (220 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 98 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2002 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 2002 Cadillac CTS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2002 Cadillac CTS (296 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. 2002 Cadillac CTS has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Cadillac CTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2002 Cadillac CTS 2008 Volkswagen Passat
Make Cadillac Volkswagen
Model CTS Passat
Year Released 2002 2008
Body Type Sedan Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3173 cc 1983 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 220 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 296 Nm 200 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 87.5 mm 82.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88 mm 92.8 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 11.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1618 kg 1520 kg
Vehicle Length 4840 mm 4780 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1520 mm
Wheelbase Size 2900 mm 2720 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 66 L 70 L