2008 Cadillac STS vs. 1983 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Cadillac STS is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,376 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac STS (469 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 410 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac STS weights approximately 620 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Cadillac STS is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac STS 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, 2008 Cadillac STS (595 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 495 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. 2008 Cadillac STS has automatic transmission and 1983 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1983 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Cadillac STS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Cadillac STS | 1983 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
| Model | STS | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4376 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 469 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 595 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2560 mm |
