2005 Cadillac STS vs. 1988 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Cadillac STS is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Cadillac STS (321 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 247 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Cadillac STS weights approximately 717 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Cadillac STS 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 2005 Cadillac STS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2005 Cadillac STS (427 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 306 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. (121 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2005 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Passat. 2005 Cadillac STS has automatic transmission and 1988 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1988 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Cadillac STS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Cadillac STS | 1988 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
Model | STS | Passat |
Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4565 cc | 1780 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 321 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 427 Nm | 121 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1817 kg | 1100 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2630 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 42 L |