2006 Cadillac CTS vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2006 Cadillac CTS is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,786 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Cadillac CTS (211 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 135 kg more than 1996 Volvo 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Volvo 850, 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, 1996 Volvo 850 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Cadillac CTS. (263 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Cadillac CTS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Cadillac CTS | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volvo |
| Model | CTS | 850 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2786 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 263 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1592 kg | 1457 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2670 mm |
