2003 Cadillac CTS vs. 1986 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2003 Cadillac CTS is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Cadillac CTS (179 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 850 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Cadillac CTS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2003 Cadillac CTS (245 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. (95 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Cadillac CTS | 1986 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
| Model | CTS | Polo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 1041 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 179 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2340 mm |
