2009 Cadillac CTS vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Cadillac CTS is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac CTS (215 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 630 kg more than 1996 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, 1996 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, 2009 Cadillac CTS (300 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Cadillac CTS | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
Model | CTS | Golf |
Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3175 cc | 1391 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 215 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 116 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2480 mm |