2006 Cadillac STS vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Cadillac STS is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,556 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Cadillac STS (320 HP) has 271 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2006 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 2006 Cadillac STS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 2006 Cadillac STS (428 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 346 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. 2006 Cadillac STS has automatic transmission and 1979 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1979 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Cadillac STS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Cadillac STS | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
| Model | STS | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4556 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 428 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 45 L |
