2008 Cadillac CTS vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Cadillac CTS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Cadillac CTS would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac CTS (210 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 167 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Cadillac CTS is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac CTS will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Cadillac CTS. (263 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Cadillac CTS. 2012 Volkswagen GTI has automatic transmission and 2008 Cadillac CTS has manual transmission. 2008 Cadillac CTS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen GTI will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Cadillac CTS | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
| Model | CTS | GTI |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 263 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
