2006 Cadillac CTS vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Cadillac CTS is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,556 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Cadillac CTS (255 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (172 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2006 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 2006 Cadillac CTS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2006 Cadillac CTS (343 Nm) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (235 Nm). This means 2006 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Cadillac CTS | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
| Model | CTS | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3556 cc | 2801 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 343 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2480 mm |
