2003 Cadillac CTS vs. 1993 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2003 Cadillac CTS is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Volkswagen Golf 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 65 more horse power than 1993 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1993 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 375 kg more than 1993 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 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, 1993 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 (245 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Volkswagen Golf. (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2003 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Cadillac CTS 1993 Volkswagen Golf
Make Cadillac Volkswagen
Model CTS Golf
Year Released 2003 1993
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2597 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 179 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 166 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 2600 RPM
Engine Bore Size 83.3 mm 82.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 79.6 mm 92.8 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 10.3:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1620 kg 1245 kg
Vehicle Length 4840 mm 4350 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2480 mm