2007 Cadillac STS vs. 1985 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2007 Cadillac STS is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Cadillac STS (320 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 250 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Cadillac STS weights approximately 660 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2007 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 2007 Cadillac STS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2007 Cadillac STS (427 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 294 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. (133 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2007 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. 2007 Cadillac STS has automatic transmission and 1985 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1985 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Cadillac STS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2007 Cadillac STS 1985 Volkswagen Jetta
Make Cadillac Volkswagen
Model STS Jetta
Year Released 2007 1985
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4565 cc 1588 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 320 HP 70 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 4500 RPM
Torque 427 Nm 133 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 2700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 93 mm 76.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84 mm 86.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 23.0:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1638 kg 978 kg
Vehicle Length 4990 mm 4320 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2960 mm 2480 mm