2003 Cadillac CTS-V vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Cadillac CTS-V. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Cadillac CTS-V would be higher. At 5,666 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Cadillac CTS-V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Cadillac CTS-V (400 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 326 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Cadillac CTS-V should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Cadillac CTS-V weights approximately 556 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Cadillac CTS-V 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 2003 Cadillac CTS-V. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2003 Cadillac CTS-V (529 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 403 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 Cadillac CTS-V will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Cadillac CTS-V | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
| Model | CTS-V | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5666 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 400 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 529 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99.1 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1189 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 55 L |
