2003 Cadillac CTS vs. 1989 Ford Escort

To start off, 2003 Cadillac CTS is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Escort 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 120 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 690 kg more than 1989 Ford Escort. 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, 1989 Ford Escort, 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 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Cadillac CTS 1989 Ford Escort
Make Cadillac Ford
Model CTS Escort
Year Released 2003 1989
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2597 cc 1753 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 179 HP 59 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 110 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 83.3 mm 82.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 79.6 mm 82 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 21.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1620 kg 930 kg
Vehicle Length 4840 mm 4050 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 64 L 55 L