2009 Cadillac CTS vs. 1991 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2009 Cadillac CTS is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac CTS (179 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 633 kg more than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 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 2009 Cadillac CTS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1991 Volkswagen Golf (234 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Cadillac CTS. (232 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1991 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Cadillac CTS.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Cadillac CTS 1991 Volkswagen Golf
Make Cadillac Volkswagen
Model CTS Golf
Year Released 2009 1991
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2597 cc 2792 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 179 HP 175 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 232 Nm 234 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 4200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 83.3 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 79.6 mm 90.3 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 10.0:1
Acceleration 0-100mph 9.3 seconds 7.6 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1788 kg 1155 kg
Vehicle Length 4830 mm 4030 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2480 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 68 L 55 L